Next, head out of the church and cross the Mnster Bridge towards the other side of the river, where Old Town continues. The cost is about 15 Swiss Francs. Everything was very well planned out. Do you see a leftward drift in your church and pastor? German, Italian, French, and Romansh. Politics-Govt. Inside the summit station, there is a restaurant, astronomical observatory, a gift shop, and Europes highest-altitude hotel. I soon realized by posters on the wall I had inadvertently crashed a party that was part of a weekend-long art festival. Please try again. The guide includes everything from the hacks we use to save money on travel to printable packing lists. While that is pretty cool, we recommend skipping the Lrdal tunnel for the scenic route. As you guess by the name, tonight you will be eating fondue. })(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-P6R8DKB'); 3 years ago we quit our jobs, put our stuff in storage, and took off on a (disastrous) year-long honeymoon. Things to Know about Visiting Switzerland. Take a morning flight from Stavanger to Bergen. This little self-serve cafe has your basics delicious little sandwiches, fries, and fresh meringue. For more information on the local climate, read this guide to Iceland weather conditions. Youll hop off on one of the first few stops atTrmmelbach Falls. The itinerary, and information provided before the start of our tour was excellent and took care of all our concerns. Hell, I bet youre worn out just reading this. Find out whatannual Icelandic events and festivalsare on in our travel guide. Lets get to it! Once again,your Swiss Travel Pass will cover the cogwheel train up the mountain (see how useful it is I think at this point its literally paid for itself already). And if you have any questions or need advice, you can always contact us. Weve had a few iterations but this feels the strongest to get plenty of time in each area, get a mixture of sights to see and minimize travel. It should only take about 40 minutes up, but plan closer to an hour (about two for the total trip) since it seems everyone in Switzerland is a faster hiker than I am. Summer (June, July & August) All of these work great in the summer. Your drive along East Iceland today is characterised by long and narrow fjords with steep mountainsides and rugged tundra. She is especially stunning in the morning, the rays of light hitting her face while the rest of Zermatt remains in shadow. And yes, I told you this entire story just to tell you to get fancy fries as a late-night snack. And I was like, um, okay, wow. However, on these trains every seat comes with an eye mask, ear plugs and a blanket for the journey. Day 10: Train from Trondheim to Oslo Day 11: Depart from Oslo Here's another option that would cut out Geirganger but give us a lot more time to relax. Gornergrat is the highest station on the railway and the second highest in Europe at 10,135feet. WebCustomize your notifications for tour dates near your hometown, birthday wishes, or special discounts in our online store ! WebThe Definitive Voice of Entertainment News Subscribe for full access to The Hollywood Reporter. The park is quiet, where you will see people walking their dogs and youll be able to see all the spires and architecture dating back as old as 1231 AD. Could this cow parade be as cute as I had hoped? 5.1 Portobello Market; 5.2 Notting Hill; 5.3 Hyde Park; 5.4 South Kensington & the museums; 5.5 Harrods; 5.6 Buckingham Palace; 6 Cool things to do in London not included in this London 2 day itinerary . How do I get more local advice before I book my trip to Iceland? Its been a day, hasnt it? Enjoy the natural beauty of Snfellsjkull National Park. If you decide to buy something, there is a place to deposit your money. Although this isnt always available, youll be able to store your luggage at the hotel so you can start exploring before check-in. Your boat journey will take you to the little lake town of Vitznau, where you will depart and take a short walk to the Rigi Klum cogwheel station, which you cant miss as everyone from your boat will be walking there. Figure out where to start with these 10-day itineraries. You need a snack! 182 km / 113 mi. Be sure to hit the renowned Hallgrimskirkja for a panoramic view over the remainder of the city, join a free walking tour to familiarize yourself with key landmarks, and catch a show at the esteemed Harpa concert hall. Before leaving for Switzerland I only had about two weeks to plan an itinerary for a country Ive never been to, and lucky for you, I have done the hard work and can give you tips and tricks to not only get the most out of your trip, but getting around! Ahhh, the hills are truly alive with the sound of music in the Swiss Alps. Just make sure you get in the train car that has a 2 on the side of it, which is most of the train cars. This is the perfect place to sit and enjoy the Alps, and maybe if youre lucky, meet some feeling English-speaking tourists. Throughout winter (October to April), the weather conditions are very changeable, so you could experience rain, snow, sun and cold winds. One private transfer from Keflavk Airport to Reykjavk, Accommodation (Economy/Comfort Plus/Superior) for 9 nights, Rental car of your choice with unlimited mileage, CDW and VAT for 8 days, Free unlimited in-car Wi-Fi & 2 authorised drivers for the duration of the vehicle rental period, One semi-private transfer from Reykjavk to Keflavk Airport on departure, Information meeting with your travel consultant (optional), Map of Iceland and detailed personal itinerary, Any services not listed above as Included. Boats run frequently so you shouldnt have to wait long, and a good rule of thumb is to get there about 10 minutes before the hour. 300 km / 186 mi. Nature here is imminent, beauty is everywhere, and Switzerland is truly as stunning as they say (they being me!). That being said, Lauterbrunnen is a bit touristy, so expect to see plenty of souvenir shops, and of course, tourists. (Apparently yes, though I did start to crave a vegetable now and again.). Cook Village: Days 5-6: Wanaka - Town Tour and Hiking in Mt. I have only figured out while writing this I did not get off at the highest station, rather at one several stops down. South of the village of Vk, make a stop at the volcanic black sand beach* for dramatic views of the Dyrhlaey island and Reynisdrangar rock formations rising above the crashing waves. One of the most beautiful cities in Spain, Seville has a ton to offer tourists and it is one of the best cities to get to know the unique culture and history of Andaluca. Day 6 Bergen. But one thing is for sure its definitely going to be a busy day for you! Zermatt is one of the highest ski resorts in the world, the town nestled snugly at 5,276. 247 km / 153 mi. Today is the day to get closer to the Matterhorn, that 14,692 peak of myth and one of the most iconic mountains in the world. For example, a double bed often consists of 2 single beds pushed together. Make a reservation in advance (I made mine for 7pm), and request that you sit by the windows overlooking the river. It's also possible to book this directly with the car rental agency. Thats right, on the right-hand side of the plaza you will see a sign for the cable car to Weggis, which is one of the adorable little cities you passed by on the boat on your way to Vitznau. Just a few of the majestic sights youll take in during your trip. Weve answered the most frequently asked questions here so you know what to expect. Icelands winters are chilly although not as cold as you may expect. The air doesnt get much cleaner (or thinner) than this, so bask in the glory of nature in the wild until youre ready to head down (or start to feel woozy). Youll pass lush pastures, wildflowers, and get incredible views as you ascend over 4000 feet up the mountain. On your penultimate day in Switzerland, youll be taking in a bit more of the Alps before going south, to explore even more of the Alps! 3,352 Reads. Gruesome? Looking for the summer version of this tour? And you can all this and more on an incredible 5-day Switzerland itinerary! Lauterbrunnen is the main town that sits in Lauterbrunnen Valley, where 72 waterfalls spill from the thousand-foot cliffs on either side of the valley (including Trmmelbach Falls). If you have something specific in mind, get in touch with your travel consultant and theyll create your dream trip. Its actually connected by the longest car tunnel in the world that stretches over 24 kilometers. Yes, when you book your Iceland tour with Nordic Visitor, you always get airport transfers to and from Keflavk Airport included. While the train is not covered under the Swiss Pass, it will give you 50% off on a day pass, making it under $50. Well, not yet, youre not in the hills yet! After crossing the bridge, youll head to the Musegg Wall, a medieval defensive wall that is about 2600 feet long with nine towers dotting it like crown jewels. Since it is so temperate during this time, you can expect to see lots of beautiful wildflowers and gardens, especially up in the Alps, where its like perpetual spring. Dems need 10 from GOP to codify SSM and they may have 'em. Wi-Fi . Alas, when I went to order them, the kitchen had closed. For those interested in the history of Iceland, a visit to the Icelandic Settlement Centre in the town of Borgarnes is recommended. Once you disembark from your boat, you are going to head to Vesper, a modern and chic Self service restaurant, which means you order and pay at the counter and you take your food and go find a seat (these places are generally much cheaper). People will be lining the streets of Lauterbrunnen and waiting. I suggest you walk to Pier 1 Luzern (the main boat pier) and there will be a nice person in a uniform answering questions of tourists who dont know where the f**k theyre going or what the f**k theyre doing (AKA me). Weve created a map of this New England road trip! Exploring each of the cities and towns on the itinerary is just as easy there are buses, cable cars, and most of the places you will be exploring will be done on foot! tipping, buying souvenirs, and other useful information, Free private transfer from airport on arrival, Handpicked hotels by local travel experts with breakfast included, Reliable rental cars from our trusted partners Enterprise & Hertz, Comprehensive itinerary, personalised map and travel guide, Local travel experts with firsthand experience, Photograph jagged basalt columns & sweeping, Durable insulated jacket, which should be waterproof, Mid-layers such as a fleece or woollen jumper, Swimwear for visiting geothermal pools or spas, Electronic equipment such as smartphone, external powerpack, and travel adapters, Sunglasses and sunscreen for exploring in the snow or glacier excursions. And with accommodations in rural areas with low light pollution, you will have the chance to see the northern lights. Twin rooms are 2 separate single beds. Its a great place to wind down in the heart of the action. Day 2: enjoy your drive through Applecross & Bealach na Ba on the way to Skye. Learn how your comment data is processed. Gornergrat Station gives you the most intimate views of the Matterhorn its right there! By following Lias Ultimate Practical Travel Planning Guide I was able to make wise planning decisions, and also get around on a budget (this is a budget blog after all)! After your spiritual enlightenment brought on by sheer overexertion, meander down the rest of the wall and check out the other towers, all of which have long German names and some of which include clocks. If the sun is shining, the sky will be bright and blue and youll be able to see for miles. Visiting Sequoia National Park is a must if youre in California! 2. Our best price per person when booking for two. These shoulder season months have more tour and attraction availability. Lucky for you, the Matterhorn has its very own cogwheel train system called the Gornergrat Bahn! Talk about a big head! In the early 16th century, Denmark, Sweden and Norway formed a union, called the Kalmar Union, wherein Copenhagen became the capital city for all three. Psst: Planning a visit to Europe or the Switzerland area? Site by, 30 Things Nobody Tells You About Quitting Your Job to Travel, 32 Things Nobody Tells You About Long Term Travel as a Couple, 30 Things No One Tells You About Backpacking in South America. Or read more about thebest time to visit Icelandon our blog. The Spreuer Bridge, the turquoise river running through the heart of town, Lake Luzern and the mountains in the distance. Lake Lucerne is the glittering gem of Lucerne. Thats some Dr. Seuss sh*t. Put one or two of these magical Swiss eggs in your bag for later to achieve ultimate power. Weve partnered with local businesses and selected hotels and guesthouses based on excellent ratings, comfort and our personal experience. Snow-covered Alps. You can experience the northern lights between October and March, with peak visibility from December through February. Once in Bergen, rent another car. No problem! Start this 10-day itinerary in Rome, ancient center of the Roman Empire.You'll tour the city center to see main landmarks, like the Piazza Navona, and explore Centro Storico one of Rome's most historic districts to see classical Roman and baroque architecture. By Richie Goff | Updated on: October 4, 2022. Driving distance approx. If the Northern Lights do not appear on your voyage in Norway, we will give you another 6 or 7-day Classic Voyage free of charge. As I stuffed myself to the brim with salty cheese as the kind staff cheered me on (seriously, they kept telling me I could do it), and I watched the sunset over Lucerne. I stayed on top of the first tower, which is open for you to overlook the city for a long time. God, how I wished I could see those things! AVAILABLE: HAVE IT ALL. Please note that in Iceland room types are based on European standard sizes, which means they are smaller than in North America. Trondheim 5. Save it for later on Pinterest! While most of your adventures will be warm (during the daytime it is around 70 degrees), at night and during any mountain excursions you will want warmer clothing (especially since there is snow on the mountains). It includes the itinerary highlights (i.e. On a sunny day, the Matterhorn will be perfectly lit and youll get the most stunning view of the mountain possible. Northern light offer details. In summer, June to August, youll have milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, compared to the winter. Thank you so much. Youre welcome. How far in advance should I book my tour before arriving in Iceland? Lunch is next! Thoughts? Hexen in German means witches, and this bar delivers on this ambiance. Once you have some food in your belly, wander around the east side of the river in Old Town, heading north. Plus, youll have access to our 24/7 helpline during your trip should you need to contact us. If you prefer an active day outside, you can choose one of many optional activities, depending on your personal interests. What was this cow parade? By booking with Nordic Visitor, youll have peace of mind knowing that theres always someone there for you throughout your trip. *venturing onto a glacier or engaging in ice climbing should only ever be attempted with the assistance of a licensed and experienced guide. While nothing bad happened by not knowing any German, I did have some lost in translation moments that would have been helpful with a little conversational ability. On a beautiful day, there is plenty of outdoor seating beneath the white and red striped awnings, with red geraniums blooming all around you. Vegistube, as the name sounds, is a vegetarian restaurant along the main street of Zermatt. Viking OCEAN's current plans are for a fleet of 16 sisterships, all of which are Fincantieri-built and Norway-flagged. I was lucky enough to just happen to be there while it was happening, so I was able to see this as I took myself and my luggage down to the train station. While you can check the timetable in advance for your trip to Mount Rigi, if youre like me they dont make any sense no matter how many times you look at them. Simply return later to collect your bags before catching your transfer to the airport. Hope back on the train down three stations to the Riffelalp Station, which is about 3000 feet lower than you just were (hopefully should help any altitude sickness). In 2016 we quit our jobs, put our stuff in storage, and took off on a (disastrous) year-long honeymoon. Day 1: Reykjavik Begin your 10-day Iceland road trip in the nations capital, Reykjavik. As for meals, your breakfast is included at all your accommodation in Iceland. Standard rooms in good quality and comfortable three-star hotels in combination with well-appointed guesthouses or country hotels. *Please note that the northern lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings cannot be guaranteed. Day 5 Copenhagen to Bergen. ), the main train terminal in Zurich. And what can you expect upon landing in Keflavk? Honestly, if you skip the savory stuff and jump for one of their artful patisseries, like their famous lemon tart or their chocolate cake with gold leaf, I wont blame you. Bergen 4. Collect your luggage from the hotel its time to head to the train station to head to Lauterbrunnen! Next is the Haukadalur geothermal area, home of Geysirthe original geyserand the more active Strokkur, which spouts water every few minutes. See you soon in the Netherlands! What are the daylight hours in Iceland in winter? Because of its northerly location close to the Arctic Circle, Iceland has limited daylight in winter. Are you packing your bags and singing The Sound of Music at the top of your lungs yet? Dinner tonight is at Fondue House Du Pont. After you have your fill, head on the winding path towards the falls. What? Visiting from another country? The city also contains some pretty iconic spots, like a wooden bridge from the 14th century depicting scenes of death and a world-famous lion carved into the side of a hill. Trmmelbach Falls are subterranean glacial waterfalls inside a cliff face, where over 5000 gallons of cold glacial runoff per second surges down through the boulders to pools below. This boat ride is included so no need to buy a special ticket. Budget between 2,0003,000 ISK for lunch per person, each day. You act as your own tour guide and driver, and you get to pick the road trip music! Days 1-4: Seville. You can also check out our online Iceland Travel Guide where weve compiled useful information about topics, including: After you have booked your tour, it will only take a few days to confirm its availability. Day 2: Lucerne and Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland, Day 3: Explore Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland, Day 4: Lauterbrunnen and Zermatt, Switzerland, 43 Photos That Will Make You Want to Book a Trip to Adorable Graz, Austria, Zhringerstrasse 24, 6003 Luzern, Switzerland, Ski Trip Packing List: 32 Essentials to Pack for the Snow, Traveling with curly hair: the low maintenance guide to amazing curls abroad, Where to Stay in Barcelona (& Where NOT to), 10 Fantastic Weekend Getaways in Florida (& what to do there). The town was first mentioned in writing in 1304, and maintains its medieval charm today, with its chalet-style buildings with window boxes over-following with flowers and the tall church steeple in the middle of town. Since the town of Hfn has been nicknamed the Lobster Capital of Iceland we highly recommend ending the day with a delicious lobster dinner here! With 10 days to explore nearly 60,000 miles of coastline, you'll want to make sure you're equipped with a plan to tackle Norway's wide-ranging scenery, wildlife, and culture. Since Lia was pregnant, I, Richie Goff, the Editor-in-Chief of Practical Wanderlust, got to travel to Switzerland instead (tough life, I know). Copenhagen is an ode to the countrys values and way of life. 1. As you exit the cable car station, you will see your home for the next two nights, Mountain Hostel, the most gorgeous hostel overlooking the Swiss Alps, which was originally a farmhouse built in 1563. If this sounds scary, you better get used to it, because the rest of this 5-day Switzerland itinerary involves a lot of unavoidable cable cars. This was the moment during my trip where I decided I needed to put down the chocolate and cheese pretzels and eat something that had nutritional value. Ideal for Summer Season Explore the singular beauty of the Norwegian Fjords with this ten-day charter vacation through Norway's largest and deepest fjord. If you think they may be interested, send the tour details directly to your friend's email inbox for future references. 185 km / 114 mi. The water is potable, in fact, all of Switzerlands water is drinkable unless otherwise noted. The preparation and service we received from Nordic Visitor was exceptional. Either way, let me highlight some of the fascinating sites for you! And while spending only one day in London can be pretty challenging, its still enough time to visit all the most popular sights and London landmarks. The statue is free to visit, and its just in an open public park. Since 200 years is not a viable option, this 5-day Switzerland itinerary definitely gets the job done (this itinerary does not include travel days). Enjoy the journey in the rental car of your choice, with two authorised drivers and free in-car Wi-Fi. I visited Norway in the summer in June, a circular Norway road trip from Oslo in a rented car. We have tons more content to help you plan your trip! These extended hours of darkness give you a higher chance of seeing the northern lights. Bring lots of water and start early! Hinterdorf (rear village) is the old part of Zermatt, with more than 30 barns, stores, stables and old houses built between the 16th and 18th centuries along the stretch of Hinterdorfstrasse off the main thoroughfare Bahnhofstrasse. They also have plenty of other Hexen twists on drinks like martinis and Pia Colada, and plenty of non-witchy drinks for muggles as well. Your email address will not be published. The live chat option is useful for getting a quick reply as someone answers live every day during office opening hours. It is possible to take a bus or a ferry to Bergen, but this takes five hours and you need that time today to tour Bergen. Today youll take a gorgeous train ride to see the Matterhorn up close and personal, eat traditional Swiss food in the mountains, and take a short hike to an iconic lake. Once you get washed up and relax a bit (hey, youve been traveling, take it easy on yourself), head down toward the river to explore, you guessed it, Old Town Lucerne. 1.4 million people visit it yearly, but people tend to flow in and out of the area so you should have some quiet time to visit the lion. See My Options Sign Up Use Google Maps to determine what time the next train departs for the 2.5-hour ride to Lauterbrunnen. The driver will hand over your welcome package with hard copies of your travel documents. Sure. Choose to visit in the Antarctic spring or summer, starting from Buenos Aires or Santiago de Chile. Some hotels do offer dry cleaning for an additional cost. Hotel Alpha has a nice breakfast spread, with cheeses, meat, cereal, and hard-boiled eggs which are painted whimsical colors. Here there is a little store to buy some snacks or a fresh pretzel (as I did), and a huge modern plaza where you can sit and take in more gorgeous views. You know the place. Take in the glory of this view (and adapt to the 9,236feet a bit) before hiking back up to the train station and heading up to the highest station! Whether youre hopping on your 3.5-hour train ride back to Zurich to fly home this evening or tomorrow morning, make sure you say goodbye to the Matterhorn before you go. Sit outside if you can, and watch the tourists stroll by while having a Zermatt Bier. There are limited laundry facilities along the Ring Road and in Icelands countryside. Find out! View Itinerary. (Not a whole lot it turns out.) After freshening up, its time to get out and explore Zermatt a bit. Dont hesitate to get in touch with your travel consultant if you have any specific requests about optional activities or services. Lindenhof is a gorgeous little park, which after a set of stairs, gives you an overview of Old Town and the river. Stavanger 2. Here are the Swiss apps I used and a few others that will help with general traveling: I was lucky enough to explore Switzerland this past September before going to Austria to attend the Propel Blogging Conference in Vorarlberg (feel free to check out my Vorarlberg photo guide too!). Today is another busy day, so pack your day bag and get ready to hit the town, er, lake! I highly recommend getting a 6-day 2nd class Swiss Travel Pass (remember, youll have to get back to the airport), which not only covers trains but most of the excursion transportation on this 5-day Switzerland itinerary (Ill denote the one excursion it doesnt work for). and this 5-day Switzerland itinerary will tell you how to do them all. Swiss Family Funs guide will tell you everything you need to know about the Flower Trail. So when do you check in? Charming towns dot the perimeter of the lake, and youre going to check some of them out! Grampis has the typical Tuscan Italian feel, decked out in cozy oranges and yellows with the ceiling covered in different photographs and random memorabilia. Driving distance (including Trllaskagi) approx. There are also restrooms, water fountains, and places to sit if you need them. This is Dahlias and gorgeous gardens are everywhere, with plenty of palms and Mediterranean foliage, especially near the water. That said, the temperature can drop below freezing at times. While Zermatt is small enough to traverse by foot, there are plenty of shops (some reallllllyyyy expensive), restaurants, and even a Matterhorn Museum to keep you occupied as you explore the home of the Matterhorn (more on that in a bit). Thank you for keeping us updated with the Coronavirus news and how it may have impacted on our travels. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Take a seat at the first bench you find and enjoy the views and have a snack! (Easily, luckily!) On the way back take big deep breaths of the towering pine trees, and once you leave the forest, youll get to enjoy the most stunning view of Gimmelwald below and the alps like titans in the distance. Like, how do I get around by train? There really is no place like Switzerland, no mountain like the Matterhorn, and no cheese like Swiss cheese. Youll pass through wooden tunnels, past glittering lakes, and if youre lucky, see some super cute mountain sheep. Finally, explore Venice, known for its waterways and canals, built across 100 small Mrren is one cable car stop going up, so youll hop on the cable car by your hostel and will be in Mrren in minutes. WebExplore our all-inclusive luxury cruises to unforgettable destinations with Regent Seven Seas Cruises and experience a dream vacation. Ride all the way to the top to Rigi Kulm, where you will be able to take a short hike from the station to the tall telecommunication tower which you can climb up for an even higher look. It is the definitive scenic route to see the Norwegian coast. And though I keep saying German, you should know that German is only one of FOUR national languages of Switzerland. Each fjord has its own unique qualities, with small fishing villages in postcard-perfect settings and friendly locals. Head back over the river by way of the Chapel Bridge, another wooden bridge with paintings, which are less about death and more about Swiss history and Christendom. Share this tour with a friend. I got a cucumber and cheese sandwich, a delectable raspberry meringue, and a cup of espresso and sat outside, enjoying the ever-regal presence of the Alps. It was a wonderful experience and we'll definitely book our next nordic tour with you again. Enjoy Norways spectacular beauty as you traverse the Norway in a Nutshell route to Oslo. Once your trip details are finalised, well email you copies of your travel documents. The effect is cool, misty, and magical you can feel the raw force of nature just inches from your fingertips. Rest a while if you like, and when youre ready to head down, take the super scenic cable car down! Then the booking process starts, which may take a few weeks. When he is not growing flowers for fun, he is the Editor-in-Chief of Practical Wanderlust and Lets Go Louisville. Grab some complimentary breakfast, which is typical of Switzerland cheese, meat, milk, fruit, cereal, coffee, and more spread out on the bar. Seriously it didnt earn the nickname Land the If you have never driven on snow and ice, Nordic Visitor does not recommend a long road trip in the winter. 4,191 likes. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. You will be flying in and out of Zurich Airport, Switzerland for this itinerary, since its the biggest airport in Switzerland and therefore the cheapest and easiest to access! Today you have the option of driving the Snfellsnes peninsula (if weather and road conditions allow). At this point, youre probably getting hungry, okay, starving, so head over to Caf & Conditorei 1842. WebWinter Wonder Along the Ring Road. I recommend getting off the bus by the train station and walking back the direction you came through town. I walked through it around 5pm (they close around 5:45pm), and I was pretty much alone, and got to take in the serene water below and the various moss and ferns on the rock around me. Youll also find more practical advice and attraction recommendations in our online Iceland Travel Guide. Rest assured that youll stay in the best possible properties, which have all received excellent reviews from previous customers. Lots of cheese and chocolate. Here is a recommended winter packing list for your trip to Iceland: For more information, check out thisIceland packing list. This is a guide on how to spend one day in Sequoia National Park, including what to do, the main attractions, a suggested Sequoia National Park itinerary, and more!. This could include snowstorms, icy roads, strong winds and little daylight. Here are some recommendations: Note: We didnt list out everything here, so make sure you pack plenty of basics! Well, if youre up for one more stop before you catch some shuteye, check out Hexen Bar. So grab breakfast at Alpenroyal (which is included and decadent), and get down to the train station early. Check out some of our other posts to help you plan your trip! Iceland Ring Road 10-day itinerary The best Iceland Ring Road Trip. Travelling with your kids? Now that you are unencumbered by luggage, you can head up to the main terminal where you can go to the currency exchange if needed, or head right outside in the cruel unrelentless sun beauty of another gorgeous morning. Yes, you can see the best of Iceland in four days! Your first stop is not the highest station Gornergrat, but the second-highest station Rotenboden, which takes about 30 minutes to reach. Thats right. Its 5 CHF to enter the church, but well worth it to see these five stunning windows which depict different biblical scenes in red, blue, yellow, and green by a true master artist in his indelible modernist style. The cow parade is quite simple the farmers move their cows down to the valley for the fall because the mountains are about to get real cold. Drive to the historical Borgarfjrur region of west Iceland today. Day 3: Lake Tekapo - Hiking, Hot Pools, and Stargazing: Lake Tekapo: Day 4: Mt. Be sure to check Google Maps to see when the next train to Lucerne is, and pick a direct train so you dont have to transfer several times which can be confusing (though Google Maps is good about telling you which platforms you need to go to). You can next make your way toward Skagafjrur, an area known for its abundance of adorably stocky Icelandic horses. Eek. Can I survive on cheese and chocolate alone? You first wind a bit through Zermatt, then up the sides of pine-tree-covered mountains, until the tree line ends and you see the vast mountain plains as the Matterhorn gets closer and closer. September is also a great time if you want to see the parade of cows in Lauterbrunnen. Since this 5-day Switzerland itinerary is for warm-weather activities, the best time to visit Switzerland is July-October. Mrren, like Gimmelwald, has no cars and is your idyllic alpine village, but with more stores and visitors than the tiny Gimmelwald. All your services will be pre-booked by your personal travel consultant at Nordic Visitor. Once youve booked, well provide you with a travel guide packed full of local tips and top attractions for your visit. The most fun (and common) way to say goodbye is Tschss, so at least learn that! All our concerns-snowed in, in the south, at Saeluhus I Landbroti with breakfast 4 km away and again snowbound at Gauksmri in the north and unable to travel on- were dealt with rapidly and became part of the adventure rather than a worry. I visited at the end of September and the weather was nearly perfect days in the mid-70s while some nights in the alps got into the 40s. Rooms with shared bathroom facilities in farmhouses, cosy guesthouses or well-appointed hostels. But the real star is the outdoors, staring into the face of the Matterhorn and walking along some of the adjoining trails. They will be your point of contact for all your travel needs before, during and even after your trip. The cow parade happens in Lauterbrunnen from September through early October, the exact dates changing slightly each year. And the Atlantic winds can make it feel colder than it is. An eye mask is an essential item especially when travelling in the summer months. For the best chances of seeing them, a self-drive tour is ideal. WebWelcome to the Itinerary Planner. Yes, you can customise this tour online. Seriously, up in the crisp air of the alps in the town of Gimmewald, youll only hear birds, the sound of falling water, and the ringing bells around the neck of cows grazing in the pastures. If youre flying in the afternoon, you have the option to visit the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa to relax in the warm mineral waters before continuing to the airport (optional: not included). Would highly recommend Nordic Visitor to anyone wishing to visit Iceland. Walking up to this lake, you get a beautifully framed image of the Matterhorn, which is reflected perfectly in the small lake below you. To this day, over 500 people have died on the Matterhorn. The menu here is called the book of spells and contains witchy spins on classic drinks. Anyway, stop and get yourself a pretzel, ideally covered in melted cheese like I did. Itinerary in short Cities visited on this trip: 1. Iceland is Open | Iceland volcano update 2022, Iceland Well. The Gornergrat Bahn station is by the main station where you arrived, and ideally you want to get here early, definitely before the packed 10am train. And youll come face to face with the famed Matterhorn, the face of a country (and a candy bar). This includes your rental car and accommodation in Iceland, along with airport transfers and planned activities, as specified in the itinerary. So please go to their bar Bazaar (fitting name) and get some fries for me. End the circle with visits to the majestic Gullfoss waterfall and the implosion crater of Keri. The Spreuer Bridge is a handsome timber bridge that runs across the River Reuss, where you can listen to the sound of the water rushing and take in the colorful Swiss buildings from a different vantage point. BEST PRICE $649 * $699. The east is also great for northern lights viewing, if the conditions are right, since there are vast stretches just outside your accommodation with no light pollution*. Grab your incredible sandwich or similar item and sit outside at the cafe tables, watching the business people on lunch stroll around the plaza. Will my transfers be included if I add extra nights to my tour? For more information about the parades and to check the dates, keep the eye on the Newly Swissed Blog. Once you disembark your train, you will follow these instructions that will take you on a bus through the valley town of Lauterbrunnen where glistening 1000 waterfalls plummet from above, and then on a cable car up 1000 to the little town of Gimmelwald. If you do not have experience driving in such conditions, you could instead pick from our guided small groups, multi-day or private tours. And yes, your Swiss Travel Pass works for this! The food here is the quintessential Italian fare, but authentic and done to perfection. We recommend that you read carefully through the following information before booking this winter self-drive tour in Iceland. Daily Poll . At that time, theyll confirm the availability of your tour. While there is a restaurant and a big playground here, the main draw is the Flower Trail, which is all downhill back to the town of Mrren. A lot of people actually come to this area to paraglide, and you totally can But I sure didnt! Visit Seljalandsfoss waterfall, where you can walk right behind the misty cascade, then head to the equally impressive Skgafoss waterfall just a short drive down the road. This will be a private, shared or bus transfer, depending on your itinerary. WebThe 2017-built MS Viking Sky cruise ship is the third in a 10-unit series of identical vessels built for Viking Ocean Cruises. Specialty Dining. '&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src= And today, youll be climbing it yourself. If youre lucky, you may get to see a reindeer or two as this is the part of the island they inhabit. Driving distance approx. Switzerland has so many surprises that are just waiting to be explored (like glacial waterfalls in a mountain!?) Unsubscribe anytime. Take your time, its a gorgeous stroll. Wintertime is the right season to visit Iceland if you want to see the northern lights (or aurora borealis). The remaining balance is due 30 days before you travel. What service can I expect from the 24/7 helpline? This is a place to rest and contemplate youre in Switzerland! 10-Day New England Road Trip Map. Youll have a stunning view of the water and the Jesuit church, and when the weather is nice, they open the windows! Around Christmastime, from early December until late January, you can expect an average of 45 hours of daylight. If youre basic (no judgment!) Interestingly though, the Danish capital was not always just that. What can I expect from a self-drive tour? He has been a friend of Lias since high school, and they have taken plenty of their own disaster-prone adventures together! During the booking process, you can add extra nights to your itinerary as well as optional day trips, excursions and upgrades. This way you can hand wash your items in your hotel bathroom. Everything you need to know about this tour before you book. The museum is only open until 6pm, so make it a priority to stop here first. Just be in the Alps. About the Author: Richie Goffis a Louisville, Kentucky native with a great love of the outdoors. Ahhh, cest la vie! Whats the best time to visit London? Today, we share down-to-earth travel tips from our many (mis)adventures on our blog and podcast! On our self-drive packages, you can choose from single, double and triple rooms. Overview of 10 Days in Italy Itinerary . To get there, you will follow the sign to Mrren outside the hostel which will take you up a path past meadows and up the hill overlooking Gimmewald. Your ship will call at 34 ports of all sizes and cross the Arctic circle twice over 2,500 nautical miles. It has nowhere to be. For the rest of your meals, your spending money will depend on the standard of restaurants you decide to go to. Please check the details of your tour to confirm. Once you exit the station, youll follow a path through a pine forest to the little resort town of Riffelalp, where restaurant Alphitta has starring views of, you guessed it, the Matterhorn. In five days you are able to see four cities/towns with varying landscapes and get a taste of what Switzerland has to offer (like cheese and chocolate). This is the ideal time to try to spot the northern lights. Many tours are also open for the following year if you like to plan well ahead. Youll get spectacular views of the lake and Weggis below as you soar from thousands of feet above. What can I expect after booking a tour with Nordic Visitor? With each stairway you climb, and tunnel you pass through, youll find a new stream of relentless glacial water rushing downwards, stunningly turquoise and as pure and clean as water can get. You could drive around the Ring Road in a full circle to reach the diverse corners of Iceland, from the South Coast to eastern fjords, around North Iceland and over to the Snfellsnes peninsula.. On average, a tour of 10 days is one A big thank you to all the accommodation owners who went out of their way to make sure we were kept as safe as possible given the exceptional circumstances. While Zermatt has lots of bars and nightlife, next-door to Alpenroyal a bit up the hill is CERVO Mountain Resort, an ultra-hip, ultra-expensive 5-star resort. Some of the things youll see along the way, more or less in order, are: When you get hungry after wandering around Lauterbrunnen, its time to head to Restaurant Weidstbli, a traditional Swiss restaurant that is a part of the hostel Camping Jungfrau, located at the foot of the famous 1000 tall Staubbach Waterfall. Heres an overview of this itinerary for quick reference: Day 1: Helsinki Helsinki City Museum, Helsinki Cathedral, National Museum of Finland; Day 2: Helsinki Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, Helsinki Skywheel, Uspenski Cathedral, Old Market Hall; Day 3: Rovaniemi Santa Claus Village, Husky Tour, Arktikum Low key stalk us here and on social media. From dramatic panoramas to time capsule towns, this itinerary promises to enliven and inspire guests with an unconventional yacht charter experience. If you want to get up in the alps, you gotta take a cable car! Spend the first half of the day exploring more of Lake Mvatn and perhaps participating in an optional activity like dog-sledding or snowmobiling. Summer is the best time to visit these three countries since theyre all coastal. Read more about visas, airports and airlines in thegetting to Icelandsection of our travel guide. Please contact your travel consultant well in advance of your arrival if youd like an early check-in. They also have pizza, and Raclette, a Swiss, melted cheese dish, if you havent hit your cheese capacity quite yet. Then, select the date you want and complete your booking. Once at the top of the hill, youll encounter a forest of pines and a sign for Sprutz Waterfall which you will follow up! Lia swore I didnt need any German but I think a little German goes a long way! This pass pays for itself and takes the guesswork out of buying each ticket and excursion tickets. Once you arrive at Zurich HB, youre going to take the stairs up to the level before the main terminal where you can rent large lockers to store your luggage, which you will keep there until you leave for Lucerne. Your ship will call at 34 ports of all sizes and cross the Arctic circle twice over 2,500 nautical miles. Look at that mountain! It was incredible, and I couldnt finish it on my own, definitely something to share (as its intended to be)! Call the hotel from the train station and they will have someone pick you up in a little battery-powered cart with your luggage (no cars are allowed in Zermatt), taking you up the small hill to the resort. Land in Rome and admire one of the most romantic cities in the world, filled with cultural delights, such as the Colosseum, before heading to Florence to discover its hidden treasures and Renaissance heritage. Its an iconic building, with its onion domes and baroque and rococo stucco. When is the best time of year to visit Iceland? Walking down this street is like stepping back in time; its very quaint, with plenty of flowers spilling out of window boxes. In this wooden paneled bar with green accents hang witches riding broomsticks from the ceiling, with colorful lanterns and a mystical vibe. Nestled between lush green and snow-capped mountains, its about 44 square miles large 24 miles long and about 2 wide. Only you can pick the best time to visit Iceland for your trip. Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you. Plus international flights starting at 200. You can also choose to end your day at the relaxing Blue Lagoon, where you can soak in the healing milky-blue waters (pre-booking needed). Once youve hiked around, taken in the sights and fields of wildflowers, take the cogwheel train back down to the Rigi Kaltbad-First station, the one I stupidly got off of myself on the way up! You can climb the first tower and walk along the wall, checking out several of the towers and getting the most stunning views of the city. One of the most prominent features are the circular stone slabs under the supports of the storehouses to keep mice out. You'll be able to enter your children's ages during the booking process. Lucerne (or as the Swiss spell it, Luzern) became an official city in 1178 and is situated by a huge lake with medieval towers jutting towards the sky. I had never had fondue in Switzerland before, and the staff was super friendly in helping me to order my first bucket of cheese pot of fondue. I ordered black coffee in German and they understood me, then asked me a question I didnt understand. You did an excellent trip. You will need to check out from your room, but will be able to store your luggage at the hotel reception. 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