If cities were royalty, Salzburg and Venice would compete for the title of prince, embodied in the preserved artistry, architecture, and culture of their respective lavish pasts. The splendor of nature surrounds Salzburg with dramatic alpine peaks. Tranquil waterways course between the collective islands creating Venice. Gondolas traverse the Grand Canal and climb to the snow-capped summits of the Alps. The streets fill with the aromas of marzipan, cakes, and freshly brewed coffee at all hours...
Customizable Itinerary
Day 1
Salzburg – Luster of the Mountains
Salzburg is considered one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, set amongst the Salzburg Alps in view of Untersberg Mountain, which reaches a height of more than 6,000 feet above sea level. Old Town contains narrow medieval streets and courtyards wrapped in arcades, harkening back to the past of an aristocratic decadence. Your flight arrives at Salzburg Airport, where your private transfer greets you at baggage claim. Your hotel stands on the promenade of the Salzach River with a view of the impressive Hohensalzburg Fortress.
The hotel’s opulence emanates from the regal décor and the history of servicing aristocrats, artists, and nobility since the 19th century. The water of the Salzach reflects the bridges and banks on the glassy surface. The river trickles past the hotel as your guide leads you on an introductory tour of the city, filled with spires and domes rising in imitation of the surrounding mountain peaks. Classical music drifts out of homes strewn alongside the cobblestone lanes. Residenzplatz, a large and historic square, stands in the heart of Old Town on the city’s left bank.
A marble Baroque fountain crafted in the 17th century crowns the center of the public square, reaching a height of nearly 50 feet. Dramatic horses rise out of the central pool beneath a figure of Atlas holding dishes. King Triton adorns the display with a conch shell in hand. Horse-drawn carriages glide down the avenues with the horse’s clopping hooves echoing against the stone homes and shops. The scent of marzipan emanates from the series of confectionaries. It feels as though you have stepped into a preserved picturesque fairytale.
What's Included:
Day 2
Salzburg – Sounds of the Hills
Day 3
Salzburg – Opulence Everywhere
Day 4
Hallstatt – Splendor of the Mountain Pass
Day 5
Venice – Over the Hills and to the Lagoon
Day 6
Venice – Past Decadence
Day 7
Venice – Glass that Binds
Day 8
Venice – Taking a Mental Picture to Remember
Trip Highlights
- Indulge in the true culture of Venice during a guided tour of the city’s treasured wine and tapas bars, which remain a deeply rooted tradition
- Experience the gorgeous scenery of Salzburg with a private tour of Old Town and the dramatic fortress
- Witness the stunning artistry and discipline of crafting glass during a glassblowing demonstration on the antique island of Murano
- Venture deep into the magnificent artistry and hidden chambers of St. Mark’s Square during a private tour of the Basilica and Doge’s Palace
- Enjoy an immersive tour into the enchanting stories and Hollywood fictionalization of The Sound of Music while exploring Salzburg and its surroundings
- Step into a storybook lakeside village in Hallstatt, nestled between alpine foothills and reflective waters
- Relish a private excursion along the Grand Canal for a panoramic view of Venice’s prestigious past embodied in the perseverant culture and architecture
- Wander the traditional Austrian town of Berchtesgaden for insight into the alpine spirit, along with a connection to the Eagle’s Nest, the secondary seat of the Nazi government during World War II
Detailed Description
There is no feeling more thrilling than discovering that the dreamlike images of a far-off landscape are real. Your 8-day journey from Salzburg to Venice immerses you in the captivating cultures of the Austrian Alps and Italian floodplains to discover the true beauty of the cobblestone streets, enticing bakeries, and opulent histories. Whether a coffee enthusiast, a classical music fan, or a lover of extravagant palaces, you will stand beneath St. Peter’s Basilica and follow along with the Von Trapp family (which inspired The Sound of Music) for an unforgettable exploration.
Your tour begins with your arrival at Salzburg Airport. Your private transfer greets you at baggage claim and escorts you to a stunning hotel located on the promenade alongside the Salzach River. Venture out into Old Town and the historic splendor of the city with a guided tour crisscrossing the river and opening to a panorama of the Alpine foothills. The following morning, your guide leads you on a fascinating Sound of Music tour, traveling along the points of interest for the real Von Trapp family and the tales of the Hollywood film.
You continue to discover the treasures of the city with a visit to the fortress overlooking the cobblestone streets. Next, you head for the hills in the town of Berchtesgaden. Wander the storybook streets before visiting the Eagle’s Nest and celebrated Salt Mines. Afterward, you leave the elegance of Salzburg behind, following the scenic mountain road to Hallstatt. Stroll through the village before visiting the Ice Caves and relishing the view from a picturesque gondola. The next day, you take to the gorgeous roadway once more, stopping across the Italian border to enjoy time in the town of Tarvisio. Once in Venice, you board a private boat for an introductory tour of the Venetian Canal.
Witness the thriving culture and captivating architecture rising out of the lagoon en route to your luxurious hotel. Then, you have a private tour of St. Mark’s Square, taking in the beauty and hidden charms of the Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. In the afternoon, you wander the neighborhoods with a guide to find the celebrated wine and tapas bars known as bacari. You board a boat once more, this time traveling to the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello to visit the glassblowing studios, colorful homes, and Byzantine mosaics. Your private transfer meets you at the hotel on the final day and escorts you to Marco Polo Airport in Venice for your flight home.
Starting Price
$3,700 per person (excluding international flights)
What's Included
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
Reviews of Zicasso's Referral Service
4.74 stars based on 35 reviews.
Reviewed By Alexandra N.
Reviewed By Jan H.
Reviewed By katie h.
Reviewed By Dianne C.
Reviewed By Joanne Z.
Reviewed By Kent P.