Trips

Venice

Welcome to Venice. This watery wonderland of bridges, towers, piazzas, canals, churches and gondolas – practically unchanged for 600 years – is literally sinking under the weight of its iconic sights. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm.

Venice

Follow your leader on an orientation walk to familiarise you with the city. After this you are free to venture out and explore Venice at your own pace. Ask your leader for information on the optional activities on offer today. Maybe take a classic journey down the Grand Canal in a Venetian gondola or enjoy getting lost crossing hundreds of bridges and uncovering your own slice of Venice. In the evening, perhaps join your fellow travellers for a group dinner at a local restaurant. Venice is famous for its specialities of fresh lobster and squid ink spaghetti dishes.

Bolzano

Bolzano is as curious as it is beautiful, and it is very, very beautiful. A mixture of German and Italian heritage makes for an interesting cultural mix in this valley town, from European-style epoque buildings to the Mediterranean-flavoured porticoes of the main square. The 3.5-hour train journey to Bolzano is made enjoyable by glimpses of gorgeous countryside from the window. Arrive and enjoy an orientation walk through this picturesque town then enjoy a free evening to it up at your leisure. The Piazza Walther (central square) is beautifully lit up in the evening and makes a great place to begin.

South Tyrol / Bolzano

Today you’ll get to sample some of the wines this region is famous for while enjoying the fresh air and stunning surrounds with a bike tour of the South Tyrolean Wine Road. Peddle along the river and through orchards, taking in the delightful sight of villas and vineyards nestled in the hills. Stop and sip along the way, perhaps trying a glass of fragrant gewurztraminer or lightly spiced cabernet – both varieties are particularly popular here. The ride will take less than 3 hours, leaving the rest of the day free for you to enjoy this beautiful area.

South Tyrol / Bolzano

Enjoy a full day in the Alpe di Siusi, the largest high-altitude alpine meadow in Europe. See the incredible vistas from above in a cable car ride over the area. Explore Prosels Castle, a building with a fascinating history. Constructed in the 13th century, the castle was rebuilt in the Gothic style in the 15th century and was briefly occupied by farmers as a form of protest in the 16th century. Then, take a scenic walk with a local storyteller to learn more about the area’s history, which (spoiler alert) involves witch trials. Enjoy an included lunch and contemplate the often dark history behind the beauty of Alpe di Siusi at the Rauchhutte, a well-situated alpine chalet restaurant at 1850 metres above sea level.

Innsbruck / Salzburg

Journey into Austria, taking a train ride to Innsbruck (approx. 2 hours), the provincial capital of North Tyrol. You'll store your luggage at the train station and head into town for some exploration. Make sure you spend some time in the beautiful old town and visit the famous Golden Roof. Perhaps check out the lavish interior of the 16th century Imperial Palace (Hofburg). Next up is another train ride to Salzburg (approx. 2 hours), the birthplace of Mozart and a World Heritage-listed city. Enjoy an orientation walk upon arrival and get acquainted with the streets around your hotel. The skyline of Salzburg is filled with the domes and spires that typify baroque architecture. Later, enjoy a fantastic view of the city while watching the late European sunset from lofty Hohensalzburg Castle. After that, your evening is free. Maybe grab an Almdudler spritz (white wine mixed with the popular herbal soft drink).

Salzburg

Today you are free to see Salzburg at your own pace or choose one or more optional activities to partake in. Maybe head to the birthplace of Mozart or relax in the gardens of Mirabell Palace. In the evening, maybe ask your leader where you can grab some Tafelspitz. This classic Austrian dish features meat boiled in a broth, served with minced apples and horseradish. The description may not sound particularly special, but this hearty meal combines salty, sweet and sharp flavours in a way that is incredibly satisfying.

Vienna

The capital of Austria and the undisputed legacy arts hub of central Europe, Vienna awaits after a 2.5-hour train journey. Get started with an orientation walk, then you’re free to do whatever you want. The public transport in the city is fantastic, which makes getting around easy. The geometric tiling on the roof of St Stephan’s Cathedral is worth a look, and you can climb 136 metres to the top of the south tower for amazing views of the city. In the evening why not head out for a meal? Of course, the classic schnitzel is abundant (and delicious) but if you’d like to try something a little different ask your leader where to find a traditional beuschel (a ragout made with calf lung and heart).

Vienna

Enjoy a free day in Vienna, with a choice of optional activities. One choice is Schonbrunn Palace, an expansive estate with lawns perfect for lounging and multiple rooms preserved from different eras. Or perhaps check out the central Hofburg Imperial Palace, where bibliophiles can see one of the world’s most beautiful libraries. Prefer to learn about a city through its culinary tradition? Consider a Food, Coffee and Market Urban Adventure. In the evening, you have the option of joining your fellow travellers and leader for dinner.

Vienna

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time following check-out. As there is so much to do and see in Vienna you may want to consider extending your stay here. We are happy to book additional accommodation for you, subject to availability. Speak to an Intrepid representative for more information.