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My Way® Alpine Europe in 12 Days
This trip delivers endless opportunities for fresh-air thrills — from Austria's Sound of Music country to flower-carpeted meadows in Italy's Dolomites, fairy-tale castles in Germany's Bavaria, cut-glass peaks in Switzerland's Berner Oberland, and spectacular scenery in France's Chamonix. For a dozen free-spirited days, this money-saving My Way vacation package gives you the freedom to decide your own daily priorities and pace. We cut the stress by providing comfortable rooms in well-located hotels, private bus transportation to each destination, and a travel-savvy tour manager to advise you along the way. Join us for My Way® Alpine Europe in 12 Days!
Dates & Prices
2025
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- Jun 23–Jul 4 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Jun 25–Jul 6 (We–Su)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Jul 14–Jul 25 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Jul 21–Aug 1 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Jul 28–Aug 8 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Jul 30–Aug 10 (We–Su)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Aug 4–Aug 15 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Aug 6–Aug 17 (We–Su)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Aug 13–Aug 24 (We–Su)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Aug 20–Aug 31 (We–Su)
- $3,295 + Air
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- May 14–May 25 (We–Su)
- $3,295 + Air
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- May 19–May 30 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,295 + Air
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- May 26–Jun 6 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,495 + Air
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- May 28–Jun 8 (We–Su)
- $3,495 + Air
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- Jun 2–Jun 13 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Jun 4–Jun 15 (We–Su)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Jun 9–Jun 20 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Jun 11–Jun 22 (We–Su)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Jun 16–Jun 27 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Jun 30–Jul 11 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Jul 7–Jul 18 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Aug 18–Aug 29 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Aug 25–Sep 5 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Aug 27–Sep 7 (We–Su)
- $3,495 + Air
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- Sep 1–Sep 12 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,495 + Air
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- Sep 3–Sep 14 (We–Su)
- $3,495 + Air
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- Sep 8–Sep 19 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Sep 10–Sep 21 (We–Su)
- $3,295 + Air
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- Sep 15–Sep 26 (Mo–Fr)
- $3,295 + Air
What's Included
- This is an "un-guided" tour — giving you the freedom (and responsibility) to manage your daily sightseeing schedule and meals
- A small, friendly group of 24–28 people will share our big, comfy bus during the trip, but not do organized sightseeing together
- A Rick Steves tour manager will coordinate the group's transportation and hotels and provide advice for sightseeing, meals, etc.
- All group transportation from Salzburg to Chamonix
- 11 nights' accommodations in memorable, centrally located hotels
- All breakfasts are included
- All tips for tour manager and driver
- Free Audio Europe™ app for Apple and Android (or get free podcast/mp3 files) featuring Rick's audio walking tours of sights, museums, and neighborhoods in Germany and Austria. Also includes Rick's radio interviews with experts on destinations covered in this itinerary
- A tour kit including a guidebook and a moneybelt
- Guaranteed tour price, locked in the moment you make your deposit
- Tour alum discount of $50 for each tour you've taken with us
- Flexibility should you need to transfer or cancel your tour
Costs not covered: As this is not a guided tour, you will be responsible for the cost of all your lunches, dinners, drinks, admissions, sightseeing, and non-group transportation. Be sure to plan and budget accordingly.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Salzburg
Welcome to Austria's charming city of Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart. We'll rendezvous at our hotel at 5 p.m. for a group get-together. Your tour manager will give an overview of the days ahead, answer your questions, and offer a quick orientation to our neighborhood. Then you're free for dinner on your own, and maybe an evening stroll around Salzburg's delightful, pedestrian-friendly Old Town*.
No bus. Sleep in Salzburg.
Day 2: All Day in Salzburg
Today is all yours for savoring Salzburg. Begin or end your day with a climb up to the fortress and its sweeping view of the city and surrounding mountains. You can also enjoy exploring the town's Baroque churches, playful fountains, and colorful markets. Rent a bike for an easy ride and picnic along the Salzach River, try your hand at "Do-Re-Mi" by joining a Sound of Music bus tour, or take an excursion out to nearby Berchtesgaden to see Hitler's infamous Eagle's Nest retreat (r).
No bus. Sleep in Salzburg.
Day 3: Dolomites Drive to Italy
We'll spend this morning enjoying breathtaking views as we drive into Italy, where the forested Austrian Alps give way to the chiseled 10,000-foot peaks of the Italian Dolomites. After a midday stop for lunch, we'll reach our hotel in South Tirol, a region home to Europe's largest (and arguably most beautiful) alpine meadow, the Alpe di Siusi. Dotted with farms and crowned by towering granite cliffs, this high-altitude plateau offers hundreds of miles of trails with an array of challenging hikes and easy walks to suit everyone's pace. Grab an evening aperitivo and toast to nature's splendor as the setting sun paints the mountains pink.
Bus: 5 hours. Sleep near the South Tirol area.
Day 4: All Day in the Alpe di Siusi
Today your options are as wide-ranging as the surrounding mountains. Chairlifts abound, providing springboards for the day's adventures. Take a leisurely stroll through rolling green pastures and befriend a free-roaming cow or two, or duck into a hut café to rub elbows with locals and sample traditionally prepared South Tirolean treats. For those with more energy, ridge trails get the heart pumping and provide unforgettable vistas with every step. Feeling a little more cosmopolitan? In Bolzano, the gateway to the region, cobbled lanes pave the way to a colorful street market and the impressive South Tirol Museum of Archaeology, home to 5,300-year-old Ötzi the Iceman.
No bus. Sleep near the South Tirol area.
Day 5: To the Zugspitze and Bavaria
This morning we'll head northwest into Austria's Tirol country. On the way, you'll have some free time (weather permitting) to ride a gondola lift to Germany's highest point, the 9,700-foot Zugspitze. At the top, you'll stand with one foot in Germany and the other in Austria, enjoying vistas of each. Then we're off to the charming riverside village of Füssen in beautiful Bavaria. Follow Rick's walking tour around the old town, or maybe take an afternoon bike ride across the Lech River to mountain-ringed meadows. This evening is perfect for sitting in an outdoor beer garden and hoisting a liter-size mug with new friends. Prost!
Bus: 4 hours. Sleep in or near Füssen
Day 6: Bikes, Hikes and Castles
King Ludwig's fairy-tale Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles (r) are less than an hour's walk or quick bus, bike, or taxi ride away. The Bavarian countryside is laced with wonderful bike paths, so you might rent a bike and ride to the nearby castles in Schwangau, to Tegelberg for a luge ride (or cable-car ride up to hiking trails), or over the border into Austria to explore the Ehrenberg Castle ruins in nearby Reutte. Be sure to break for coffee (or a cold eiscafe) with cake at a café along the way.
No bus. Sleep in or near Füssen.
Day 7: On to the Best of Switzerland
Today we'll drive across Bavaria and climb high into the heart of the Swiss Alps. By dinner time we'll be in the Berner Oberland's magnificent Lauterbrunnen Valley, flanked by vertical, waterfall-laced cliffs and crowned by a trio of Switzerland's most formidable alps: the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. After settling into our creaky old chalet, you'll find hearty dinner options and spectacular views just a short walk away.
Bus: 6 hours. Sleep in the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Day 8: All Day to Explore the Swiss Alps
This morning you'll wake up in one of the most beautiful spots on Earth. Take off on a mountain excursion that combines the local cog railway, a gondola lift up to Männlichen, and a spectacular alpine walk above the tree line, surrounded by a vista of snow-white peaks. You can also book a seat on the Jungfraujoch train, which leads to Europe's best glacier panorama. You'll have one more full day in this alpine paradise, so there's plenty of time to stop and smell the wildflowers.
No bus. Sleep in the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Day 9: Another Day of Swiss Adventures
Today is all yours to explore the opposite side of the valley and beyond: Ride a gondola lift to the top of the 10,000-foot Schilthorn, take in the 360-degree panoramic view, and hike back down. For a more restful day, stroll the valley floor and visit thundering Trümmelbach Falls, a unique set of roaring waterfalls carved deep into the mountainside. Finish your Swiss adventures with the region's hot and hearty specialty, rösti.
No bus. Sleep in the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Day 10: To the French Alps
This morning we'll head west toward France and our final alpine destination: the resort town of Chamonix, site of the first Winter Olympics. Spend the afternoon soaking in the French Alps ambience at the foot of western Europe's highest peak (15,780 feet), the mighty Mont Blanc. Consider taking the gondola lift to Le Brévent for a spectacular view, and ending your day enjoying a traditional dinner of raclette or fondue.
Bus: 4 hours. Sleep in Chamonix.
Day 11: Aiguille du Midi Dreamin'
Today is your day to enjoy the wonders of the French Alps. You can choose between several great hiking trails with stunning views of Mont Blanc and a supporting cast of Alps that seem to stretch forever. For one of Europe's great alpine thrills (weather permitting), take Europe's longest vertical gondola ride up to the 12,600-foot Aiguille du Midi viewpoint. From there, mini-gondolas take travelers over the snowfields and on to Italy (and back!). Or, if you prefer, simply find a café table with a view in Chamonix, and take the day off in après-ski style.
No bus. Sleep in Chamonix.
Day 12: Tour Over After Breakfast
From Chamonix, you can book a convenient two-hour shuttle bus ride to Geneva's airport. Your tour manager will help you with any post-tour planning, leaving you well prepared for the road ahead. Au revoir!
Itinerary specifics subject to change.
Sightseeing notes
(r) = reserve a time before you leave the US
* = included in Rick's Audio Europe™ app
Physical Demands
Our tours are physically active! It's an essential part of the Rick Steves tour experience. On our My Way®: Alpine Europe in 12 Days tour — among other things — you'll need to happily…
- Carry/roll your luggage over uneven pavement (possibly several blocks) and up stairways to reach your hotel, then up several flights of stairs to reach your room.
- Sleep with street noise and no (or weak) air conditioning.
- Be able to navigate hiking trails, towns, and cities on your own.
- Be responsible for your own daily sightseeing, admissions, meals (except breakfasts), and non-group transportation.
Reviews
Pam
Tour: 09/16/24
Overall rating:
The European alps are visually and geologically spectacular! Accomodations/breakfast very good. Our guide was very knowledgable. This was my first My Way trip and although I appreciated the freedom, I found it a challenge to plan and execute all the hiking in a limited time versus being on a an organized hiking tour with a guide. I was also surprised that many of the hiking areas were ski resorts with plenty of tourists, restaurants, traffic, etc. (end of Sept). Worth doing!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The snow dusted Alps, especially the Dolomites and the Eiger from the ridge trail."
Cheryl
Tour: 09/16/24
Overall rating:
The Alps were amazing. The MY WAY trip was perfect for exploring (or not!) the mountain areas. You could hike long or short distances. Whatever you wanted to do.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"After days of rain in Salzburg, we were driving to Castlerotto, Italy and the mountains/alps were covered in fresh snow. It was stunning and a nice invitation to what was ahead."
Debby
Tour: 09/16/24
Overall rating:
I was impressed with the entire process. Rooms were great. Our tour guide Don was amazing and I felt he went the extra mile/kilometer to provide the best experiences for us i.e adjusting departing times to get us to places while the weather was good.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"So many!! But I loved the Dolomites and Otzi ."
Denise
Tour: 09/16/24
Overall rating:
We had a nice time on our tour. Although the weather wasn’t the best, we were still able to experience some beautiful views.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The view from the Zugspitzbahn. The day was perfect!"
Anindya
Tour: 09/16/24
Overall rating:
Fabulous. We had some weather but we had some clear days as well. The guide, driver, fellow travelers, hikes, hotels, food, happy hours and interactions with local people were priceless. Don (the Guide) went out of his way to adjust the timings so that we got the best of the weather conditions. The alpine tour book was a big help before and during the tour.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking the Dolomites. The scenery is unbelievable even if you have seen any number of youtube and Rick Steves videos before. "
Monica
Tour: 09/16/24
Overall rating:
We had an amazing experience on the Alpine My Way vacation. Since most of this trip is in natural settings, the experience greatly depends on weather conditions and we were lucky. We had a lot of great days with excellent weather and a few rainy/cloudy days. Having said that, I will say overall this has been our most favorite trip ever. Don. C, our tour guide, was very experienced and provided us with great practical advice in terms of what our options were at each location.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There were a lot of wow moments...the Dolomites (Witches Trail and Panorama), North Face trail, and Männlichen - Kleine Scheidegg in Lauterbrunnen. The mountains everywhere had just gotten a dusting of snow, so most of the bus rides were filled with plenty of breathtaking scenery. Thank you Franky for driving us safely!"
Joseph
Tour: 09/16/24
Overall rating:
This was my 4th RS tour, but my first “My Way” vacation. I really enjoyed the best of both worlds convenience of the My Way design. Ron our tour guide was great, and did a fantastic job of offering time saving tips, options, and information to help us utilize our time wisely. When the weather looked promising, Ron and our bus driver Franky planned ahead to expedite arrival so we could make the most or our high altitude experiences.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"I love the mountains, so spending two weeks enjoying the views in the Alps was great. My favorite “wow” moments would have to be the cable car ascensions and summit views at the Zugspitze and Aiguille Du MIDI."
Debbie
Tour: 09/11/24
Overall rating:
The My Way itinerary was excellent, loved the Alps! Our manager, Ylva, did a nice job setting a daily schedule and made herself available to answer any questions we had. We enjoyed getting to know our fellow tour travelers which enhanced our experience. Overall, we had a wonderful time exploring, hiking and learning about the areas we visited.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Our favorite "wow" moment was taking the 2 person gondola from the peak of Aigulle du Midi (Chamonix, France) 3 miles over glaciers, snow and peaks to Helbronner, Italy - 360 degrees beauty! Upon the return trip we stopped midpoint on the mountain decent into Chamonix and hiked to Refuge du Plan de l'Aiguille for a late lunch. All in all a perfect day!"
Leighton
Tour: 09/11/24
Overall rating:
Having been on several fully guided Rick Steves' tours, we decided to try our hands at a My Way adventure this time and were not disappointed. Since we had visited a few of the destinations before, we felt comfortable applying the travel skills we had learned on our previous RS tours; everything from navigating airports, trains, buses and cable cars to ordering in restaurants. Having lodging and transport arranged for us gave us the opportunity relax and focus on finding our own adventures.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"It's a tossup between the view from Zugspitze and hiking the Panorama trail from Wengen and back."
Vicki
Tour: 09/11/24
Overall rating:
The weather could have been better, some rain and snow at the beginning, but overall it was a great experience. We may be better suited to non-my way tours as we found ourselves wanting more general info about the places we visited and the sites. We realize we can definitely be more pro-active on those fronts, but being able to take in info and ask questions has some benefits. We will definitely book another Rick Steves tour!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Seeing the Alps for the first time!"
Linda
Tour: 09/11/24
Overall rating:
Our weather unfortunately was not what we were hoping for in September but it certainly didn’t spoil our trip. Just changed it.. It was challenging and well worth our effort.. The people were wonderful in our tour group and in all the little towns we visited. We got a taste of every aspect of living in the Alps. Every country was the same yet so different. All the tours that we picked were excellent.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Standing on Zugspitze in Austria/Germany looking at the most gorgeous snow covered mountain tops. Truly felt like you were in another world standing on top of the world. For our tour, it was a fabulous unexpected snowfall that change the landscape from a one to 10 !!!"
John
Tour: 09/11/24
Overall rating:
We all loved Ylva and her marvelous touch at bringing us together.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Zugspitze was amazing!"
Rich
Tour: 09/09/24
Overall rating:
awesome tour manager, great hotels with the exception of the Hotel Le Faucigny
Favorite "WOW" moment
"the views"
Kathleen
Tour: 09/09/24
Overall rating:
The "My Way" tour offers exactly what it should, the ability to explore and enjoy the destinations at our pace, and see as much or as little, and as fast or slow as we choose. Our travel style was definitely a little different from others within our tour group, but that's ok. We're more about savoring a destination or a moment, and stopping to smell the roses and to take in views or experiences than rushing to check things off on a bucket list. Our guide, Brian, was inclusive of all.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Being in the right place at the right time. We were in Wengen when the cows were being brought through town. It literally brought tears to my eyes. I've heard about this, seen photos and videos, but being there in that moment was unexpected, and a memory I will treasure forever. We decided to follow the cows to their new pasture which was a little hike, but it provided us with an opportunity to speak with the farmers/herders and just listen to the bells and watch the cows grazing."
Janeane
Tour: 09/09/24
Overall rating:
The My Own Way Alpine Tour was great for my needs. It took care of the most difficult parts of planning a trip- the transportation between destinations and the hotel room reservations while giving me the freedom to do whatever I wanted while at the destinations. This is an ideal type of trip for me. Even though we didn't have the best of weather, our Tour Director made last minute decisions to accommodate the unpredictable weather and give us the most time at our destinations.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Lauterbrunnen Valley and Chamonix were breath-takingly beautiful with great weather and beautiful views from our hotel. "
Loretta
Tour: 09/09/24
Overall rating:
The tour was everything I expected and more. The weather was not perfect but the tour manager was able to adapt some of the activities to maximize the group’s experience.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"I love Chamonix!!! The cable car to Italy was breathtaking. My first time was a day trip and I had to get back. Spending a few days there was perfect!"
Melissa
Tour: 09/09/24
Overall rating:
Great tour, very informative. The tour guide, Bryan, did an exceedingly job at seeing that everyone’s needs were met.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Aguille du Midi to Helbronner cable ride! Moving through space over that glacier was so awe-inspiring and silent. Beautiful!"
Mark
Tour: 09/09/24
Overall rating:
My wife and I loved the My Way Alpine tour. Our tour guide Brian was great and a lot of fun. Every stop on the tour had such beautiful scenery and lots of choices of activities.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There were Wow moments around every turn, But Schiltthorn, the Lauterbrunnen valley and Mont Blanc were amazing."
Charles
Tour: 09/04/24
Overall rating:
Excellent for those that want to develop their own daily itinerary.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking in the Alpe de Suisi"
Yolande
Tour: 09/04/24
Overall rating:
This tour was perfect for us.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Being above the clouds up on Aguille di Midi"
Eric
Tour: 09/04/24
Overall rating:
We enjoyed the opportunity to see and hike in a number of different mountain environments.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Sunrise view of the Jungfrau from our great room in the hotel Falken in Wengen. The hike from Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidegg. "
Margaret
Tour: 09/04/24
Overall rating:
This was a great way to sample the various regions of the Alps and Dolomites and experience the surrounding cultures. We had previously visited the Lauterbrunnen Valley and returning there was partially the reason for signing up for this tour.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Visiting the Alpe di Suisi. Wandering around the beauty of the Alpine meadow was just breathtaking. Additionally the Mer de Glace in Chamonix was pretty impressive, but also eye opening at the rapid recession of the glacier."
Kristi
Tour: 09/04/24
Overall rating:
“My way” Alpine tour was a good fit for us, allowing us to pick our own adventures & not be bogged down with transportation & accommodation decisions. We very much enjoyed our fellow, like minded co-travelers & ability to interface as much or little as we liked. Tour manager was very helpful with each traveler to answer specific questions individually regarding our plans in each location as well as getting the group together for a few social events if they liked.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Fav WOW moment… gliding over the mountain tops from the top of France (Aiguille du Midi), to Italy on the gondola with our new friends we met on the tour. "
Richard
Tour: 09/02/24
Overall rating:
Every thing we hoped for
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The scenery "
Marlene
Tour: 09/02/24
Overall rating:
Well organized, fantastic tour guide, great hotels, wonderful bus driver.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Swiss alps."
Janet
Tour: 09/02/24
Overall rating:
We had a wonderful group of 26 -- not a complainer among them. Don was our tour manager who provided loads of information about each place we were going to and had answers for every question. I loved the hotels and the beautiful scenery. There were plenty of options for everyone's taste in hiking.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"When the fog lifted in the Lauterbrunnen Valley, it was breathtaking."
Janet
Tour: 09/02/24
Overall rating:
I had an amazing time on this tour. I was honestly hesitant at first to sign up for a European tour from an American company, but wow, was I proven wrong! Everything from our guide, Don; transportation, hotels, guide book suggestions, pre booking information was outstanding and well organized. Everything ran smoothly. I would definitely sign up for another “my way tour” . I also met some wonderful like minded travellers!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"I had many! Just seeing the Alps in different countries was amazing. I loved all the small little towns we stayed in. "
Linda
Tour: 09/02/24
Overall rating:
Very good but rainy weather interfered w hiking
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Lauderbrunnen"
Robert
Tour: 08/28/24
Overall rating:
This was a My Way tour. The aspects of the trip that Rick Steves was responsible for were great. The Rick Steves guide James whose job was coordinating the trip was excellent.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Because we spent 1-3 days each in 5 places in the Alps, we had wow moments every day. The best wow moments were hiking in the Dolomites (up to the top of the Alpe di Siusi) and the Berner Oberland (e.g., up to Eigergletscher). We plan to go back and spend more time in both places. "
Peggy
Tour: 08/28/24
Overall rating:
Our first Rick Steve’s Trip was done “My Way” due to the locations we wanted to see, and that it allowed time for full days of hiking. It surpassed all of our expectations for the comfort of the bus (plenty of room to spread out), walking convenience and charm of all hotel locations, and nice hotel rooms with stunning views. We followed The RS guidebook which great helped with all planning for transportation ie. trains, buses, gondolas etc., self guided walking tours, restaurants, and on and on.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking in the Alpe de Suisse and Lauterbrunnen valley. We will never forget all the beautiful cows and the sounds of their bells while hilking."
Christine
Tour: 08/28/24
Overall rating:
Tour stops, hotel locations, our guide, the bus driver, and our travel companions were all great!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Seeing the spectacular Alps with my our eyes was absolutely incredible and jaw dropping. "
John
Tour: 08/28/24
Overall rating:
Good guide, very nice hotels centrally located.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking in the Alpe de Suisi and the first view of Mont Blanc"
Cindi
Tour: 08/28/24
Overall rating:
Excellent. A My Way Tour might not be for everybody, however, it’s a great way to see cities and do things , while not being subjected to time constraints
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The gondola ride to see Mont Blanc "
Doug
Tour: 08/26/24
Overall rating:
The My Way Alpine Tour from August 26 to September 6, 2024 was fabulous!!! Would highly recommend coming at least a day earlier than the tour starts and staying at least a day later to enjoy the amazing views.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Taking the gondola to the Aiguille du Midi and then gondola from France to Italy (Helbronner) was spectacular. The panoramic view of the snowcapped Mont-Blanc, dazzling ride over the snow and glaciers with brilliant blue skies and pure white fluffy clouds is beyond words. We also were able to enjoy this time with our tour guide, Brian Swanson, and got pictures of us with our heads outside of the gondola window. It is an experience I will never forget!!!"
Marilee
Tour: 08/26/24
Overall rating:
This was our 3rd My Way trip and while different in scope to the others it was surpassed my expectations.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There were so many. The incredible views afforded us at each place. The Dolomites and Lauterbrunnen were my favorites. "
Tim
Tour: 08/26/24
Overall rating:
Well managed by our guide, quality hotels in good locations, great communication.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The endless views in the Dolomites and Swiss Alps. "
Michele
Tour: 08/26/24
Overall rating:
Amazing tour in the Alps, included hiking, eating lots of cheese and visiting castles and museums.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"So many,,,,,being on top of Mont Blanc was breathtaking. Wish we had time to take the Gondola to Italy, but we’re limited by weather. May Wow moments hiking outside of Lauterbrunnen"
Karen
Tour: 08/26/24
Overall rating:
This was an excellent tour, extremely lucky to have such friendly fellow travelers, superb weather for hiking and a big THANK YOU to our amazing tour manager, Brian, who made it such a great and comfortable experience for us.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There were several “wow” moments , but the great weather at the Dolomites in Castelrotto/Kastelruth, hiking in the Alpe di Siusi"
Mark
Tour: 08/26/24
Overall rating:
Our first Rick Steeves' tour experience left us convinced it won't be our last! The brilliant planning of the tour left no stone unturned, and eliminated the inevitable disappointments that arise from attempted self planning of travel. Our guide was flawless, the sights memorable and the friendships forged with fellow travelers were a gift to be treasured.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"On the top of the world gondola ride from France to Italy and back, the intentional midway stoppage to quiet the hum of the cables created a lifetime memory of the minutes of complete silence amid the breathtaking vistas of Mont Blanc with the Matterhorn in the distance. With a cloudless sky, the sun warmed the air enough to drop the gondola windows to reveal the calm stillness, interrupted only by our "Oohs and Aahs"!"
Julia
Tour: 08/14/24
Overall rating:
It was a fun tour. Our group was a fun group and our tour guide was excellent.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"It is hard to pick one thing, but we took a helicopter ride up to the top of the mountain near Lauterbrunnen "
Jennifer
Tour: 08/14/24
Overall rating:
The scenery was beautiful. Bus travel and driver Paul were top notch. Axel did a great job as guide and was always preparing us and available for questions. Accommodations were very nice and clean with a hearty breakfast every morning. The weather was very hot as we knew could happen in August. We stayed in Bolzano when in Italy and would have preferred to stay closer to the Alpe di Siusi. The bus ride up was not enjoyable and the bus drivers were not helpful.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Driving into the Lauterbrunnen Valley and seeing the beauty of the mountains and waterfalls."
Kim
Tour: 08/14/24
Overall rating:
Having the details ahead and the guide book specific to the trip helped to make the most of each day. The tour manager, Axel, is friendly and knowledgeable of the areas we visited. Using WhatsApp helped our group communicate and share pictures. The group meal and happy hours were fun; a time to catch up and relax together. Having a bus large enough for our own seat made travel most comfortable. The smaller town/city atmosphere was perfect. I like nature, not big cities. I always felt safe.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The way the Alps look different as we traveled was amazing. The spectacular scenery and the opportunity to climb and hike into the mountains was ‘wow’ for me. There wasn’t one wow moment; the whole trip was WOW for me."
Sandy
Tour: 08/14/24
Overall rating:
We had no problems with the tour itself, and the time was outstanding.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The beauty of all the nature places we visited."
Valerie
Tour: 08/14/24
Overall rating:
Tour guide was very helpful, fellow tour members very friendly and fun. Bolzano is an unpleasant town and far from the Alps de Suisi.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking on the Wegnen side of the Lauterbrunnen Valley."
Dawn
Tour: 08/14/24
Overall rating:
We had a wonderful time on our My Way Alpine trip. Everything was very well organized. Each hotel was in the perfect place and the transportation bus was more than comfortable.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My favorite "wow" moment was the hotel in Chamonix. Our deck was over the river and the view was of Mont Blanc. It was amazing!"
Paul
Tour: 08/12/24
Overall rating:
The tour guide and bus driver were efficient and helpful, very personable. The information given was pretty thorough, though local happenings on the day there could have been more available. The outings we chose at the pace we chose is a good idea. Ferragosto happened on the only full day we had in Italy..plus and cons should be presented (stores closed, nighttime free concert nearby).
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Going on a four seat gondola from France to Italy near Mount Blanc over the glaciers on a clear August day was a bucket list wish for years. We rode over with a Norwegian doctor who was there to practice mountain rescues..very personable.On the way back we chatted with a couple from Catalonia. Up on a mountain top brought up by a cogtrain and gondola Swiss Lauterbrunnen, we hung out with people from all over, watching clouds, eating lunch on a deck surrounded by mountain peaks and happy people."
Virginia
Tour: 08/12/24
Overall rating:
This was a great trip! I highly recommend it for those who like the outdoors and want to explore areas that are not as popularly known. The length of time we spent in each location was great, really perfect! Weather was thankfully wonderful which made for an even more amazing experience! Having others travel along side us was helpful in planning hikes and figuing directions!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking the North Face Trail in Lauterbrunnen was my favorite thing we did! I loved seeing the cows, vending stops, and the incredible beauty all around us throughout the hike! We had a picnic along the way and the trail was pretty manageable, not too steep or rigorous. "
Christine
Tour: 08/12/24
Overall rating:
Tour was well organized, I felt informed and able to do things on my own. Brian was always available even for reassurance on logistics. The places we visited were magnificent!! I liked being able to do as little or as much as we wanted. The happy hours were fun and gave us a chance to share our adventures.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Paragliding in Chamonix!! In addition taking a cable car from France to Italy across the glacier for the most amazing hot chocolate!!"
Larry
Tour: 08/12/24
Overall rating:
An opportunity to experience the Alps in 5 countries. While time limits may not allow one to see everything it does provide a good starting point for those wishing to return to a location for more exploration. The My Way format seemed to create bonding among tour members as they shared information and experiences to supplement the sound guidance of tour manager Brian.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The postcard view of the Lauterbrunnen Valley from outside my room."
Daniel
Tour: 08/12/24
Overall rating:
We appreciated the careful attention to planning the cities, hotels, and bus transportation. The fine community of travelers who shared our My Way experience was also much appreciated. For us, the My Way is perfect since we like to know our options every day, then choose our path. Yet we found the community great to help planning and carrying out our day's activities. Our tour manager especially helped to make the tour a trouble free, enjoyable experience.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Our stay in Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland, gave us our best experiences of the tour, especially spending the afternoon in Grimmelwald. The walk through the village with magnificent views of the Alps surrounding us. We enjoyed perfect weather, 72 degrees F and blue skies that day. Really a "moment" to remember for both of us."
Christian
Tour: 08/05/24
Overall rating:
It appears that your definition of "best of" translates as "most densely populated by foreign tourists". Each of the areas was quite scenic. but they were all overcrowded.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Climbing Mont Blanc"
Krista
Tour: 08/05/24
Overall rating:
Chris
Tour: 08/05/24
Overall rating:
Debra
Tour: 08/05/24
Overall rating:
Excellent itinerary; checked all the boxes for us- it was a our first trip off the continent and it couldn't have gone better! Every location's hotels were special, and ideally located both in amenities and scenery. The staff at each were wonderful, kind, and efficient. The tour, and European travel in general, was as described by your website, staff, AND Rick Steves. We have been watching Rick's shows on Public Television for 20 years-, and even found the 'back door' ourselves a few times!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"A big shout-out to James, our tour manager, and our bus driver, Eric. Their expertise contributed greatly to enhancing the trip! James was so personable (you want to hang out with him and have dinner with him!), and did a great job of anticipating the group's needs, providing guidance, and knowledge-sharing for the benefit of all of us. Erik, the driver of our bus, was 'a boss' navigating our group from one location to the next. The bus was clean and a great 'home away from home'."
Steven
Tour: 07/31/24
Overall rating:
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Probably the dinner with other trip members at a table outside the hotel in Wengen; as the sun set, it was like being transported back in time. Hiking all the Alps locations was also great. Swimming in the public pool in Salzburg was amazing! Swimming in the lake below mad King Ludwig/Leopold's castle was also incredible! Listening to the cow bells in the meadows below us in Switzerland and Italy was awfully cool, too!"
Brenda
Tour: 07/31/24
Overall rating:
I enjoyed visiting and experiencing the beauty of all the locations we visited. I love to hike and got the opportunity to do it daily along with a great group of new friends. It was a nice blend of people who were all a joy to be around.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Getting up early to see the sunrise!"
Gary
Tour: 07/31/24
Overall rating:
This was a great trip, it went to places we wanted to see. I also like the My Way format in that we do our own planning of what we want to do at each stop but don't have to worry about the logistics.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"WOW! Tandem paragliding in the Lauterbrunnen Valley but also the glacial and mountain views from the Panoramic Mount Blanc gondola to Pointe Helbronner in Italy."
Marita
Tour: 07/31/24
Overall rating:
Jason
Tour: 07/31/24
Overall rating:
Overall the trip was amazing. The locations on the trip were excellent and the hotels were well-place within the cities we stayed. The bus accommodations were high quality, the bus driver was excellent, and the tour wasn't so packed that we couldn't spread out on the bus. Ruth Ann was a very good guide with reasonable access to her expertise and recommendations.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Lauterbrunnen Valley was exceptional as was the hotel accommodations. "
Dan
Tour: 07/31/24
Overall rating:
Our Rick Steves Alpine Europe My Way Tour was outstanding and we had a great time. Everything from our tour manager Ruth Ann to the bus driver Kevin, as well as the locations selected were top notch. Our 28 participants were all wonderful too, very inclusive, fun loving and respectful. Breakfasts in general were excellent and had a lot of variety. Hotels were centrally located, but they varied a little in quality. The Alstadt Hotel Citta in Bolzano stood head and shoulders above all.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Reaching the Aguille du Midi at sunrise was absolutely magical and breathtaking. A memory of a lifetime. We are so glad we decided to sacrifice a little sleep for a once in a lifetime opportunity."
Craig
Tour: 07/31/24
Overall rating:
Wife and I had a great time on the Tour. Our guide Ruth Ann was wonderful. She answered all our questions including directions and recommendations. She helped prepare us on travel days for the upcoming Countries we would be entering. She had a personal lunch with my Wife and I, and was so kind to get to know us, as well as let us get to know her. She even went out of her way to get my Wife a Birthday Card. Our Bus driver Kevin was excellent and made the trip safe for all. Highly recommend!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There were so many WOW moments. If I had to pick just one it would be entering the valley below Wengen Switzerland. That is a view I will never forget! So Beautiful! The Dolemites and Meadows in Italy wer also a WOW moment!"
Mary
Tour: 07/31/24
Overall rating:
We wanted to see and experience the Alps and this tour did not disappoint. There was so much to see and do and the best part was we were able to choose what we wanted to do. Our tour manager, Ruth Ann, was a wealth of knowledge-her personal experience and expertise in hiking and exploring this area of Europe was extremely helpful.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Helbronner lift to Italy was truly amazing and we will never forget seeing the hikers below on the glacier. Our next favorite was the Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidegg Hike in the Lauterbrunnen Valley. "
Beth
Tour: 07/31/24
Overall rating:
The overall experience was great. The MyWay format fit us perfectly. We used the My Way Alpine book we were sent and were able to make all the plans in advance. We enjoyed the areas we visited. The group was amazing, very friendly.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My favorite Wow moment was paragliding over the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Taking the gondola ride over the Mer de Glace from France to Italy was breathtaking. The hikes on the Alpe di Siusi were memorable. I loved the Old World charm of Salzburg."
Lisa
Tour: 07/31/24
Overall rating:
This was our second Rick Steves My Way Tour. The first one we had experienced was in 2014. Why did we wait 10 years!! It was amazing and will be remembered as one of two trips of a lifetime! Our first trip did give us confidence to plan two amazing European trips on our own, but if you are hesitant about planning your own European trip & traveling to Europe for the first time, the My Way tour is wonderful and gives you flexibility. Loved every minute of it!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"I love Lauterbrunnen Valley and experienced it in 2014. Since I've seen this area before, and it was still magical, the Dolomites would have been my wow moment! The views were amazing as far as you could see!"
Dolores
Tour: 07/31/24
Overall rating:
We loved how much knowledge our tour guide had and how willing she was to help us figure out our day activities.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Seeing the mountains and being above the glaciers, in Chamonix and Switzerland."
Helen
Tour: 07/29/24
Overall rating:
The organization of hotels and bus travel between countries was perfection. Our tour guide Ruby and our bus driver Pauly were sweet, informed and kind, and generous with detailed tips and overview information.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There were too many to pick just one, but the total Alpine outdoors experience was superb. Rick's recommendations were spot on. For example his favorite village in Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland was the pure and beautiful Gimmelwald. Black Monk beer, honesty stores, majestic views and all for a Rick Steves (fair) price. We had wow moments every day, beauty, discovery and a peaceful feeling. "
Dave
Tour: 07/29/24
Overall rating:
Ruby, our Tour Manager was outstanding. She really went above and beyond to support the entire group and made the experience of touring "our way" enjoyable in every aspect
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The lauterbrunnen Valley and surrounding villages and mountain peaks"
Lisa
Tour: 07/29/24
Overall rating:
It was an amazing trip for our family of four. We loved each destination on the itinerary.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There were wow moments at every location. The hikes through Switzerland were especially breathtaking "
Anne
Tour: 07/29/24
Overall rating:
This was the perfect format for us. Our best travel memories are of times we were on our own.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The hikes we did."
Jennifer
Tour: 07/29/24
Overall rating:
Enjoyed having the freedom to explore on our own yet having plans for hotels and bus rides planned for us.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Beautiful scenery we experienced every day "
Theresa
Tour: 07/29/24
Overall rating:
Ruby was incredible, most people on this trip were hikers. She listened to understand what type of hiker they were. Ruby than gave recommendations that fit their hiking abilities. I can't say enough about Ruby's excellent listening skills.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Each suggested hike was gorgeous. Each hike was exactly as described by Ruby."
James P
Tour: 07/22/24
Overall rating:
We enjoyed the tour and liked being able to do our own thing, I did however miss the guided aspect of previous tours with all of the history and politics.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking in the Alps"
Roland
Tour: 07/22/24
Overall rating:
The scenery was amazing. Every location was beautiful and unique.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Lauterbrunnen and the Staubach Falls right from our balcony and Mt. Blanc was stunning."
Melissa
Tour: 07/22/24
Overall rating:
Amazing tour! Our guide was great, the places we stayed were authentic to the region, the book was extremely helpful, and the bus driver was top notch driving very challenging roads!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Apls di Siusi were my favorite. They were so surprising just tucked away so far up yet we did gentle hikes and stopped at a delicious restaurant! And we loved the friendly cows along the way. Experience of a lifetime! "
Brian
Tour: 07/22/24
Overall rating:
It was a great tour. We saw so many amazing places, talked to many curious people, and had time to get a taste of how people lived.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Walking through the Alpe Di Suisi was magical. We got stuck in a traffic jam consisting of a few hikers and a lot of cows. When we got tired, a hut magically appeared and served us a hot meal with excellent beer. It’s a very genteel way to explore the mountains. "
Paula
Tour: 07/15/24
Overall rating:
This “my way” trip was a first for us and I feel it was a perfect way to tour the alps since it allowed us the freedom to spend our days as we wanted. We did appreciate having guidance as we visited each area and having hotels and transportation provided.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"We both agreed alpi de suisi was the highlight as it offered spectacular scenery and hiking was geared to our level . Our tour book provided enough detail to determine how we spent our time. "
Raymond
Tour: 07/15/24
Overall rating:
It was very good with beautiful scenery,interesting sites, and great hiking.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking in Alpe di Siusi area."
Mary
Tour: 07/15/24
Overall rating:
The travel destinations and itinerary schedule were excellent. We had a great guide who struck the perfect balance of helpful and hands off. We also had a good tour group, so things were comfortable on the bus and at the occasional optional meetups. The bus driver was attentive and careful, driving safely and helping always with the baggage. The hotels were mostly great, all in excellent locations and all of the breakfast buffets were plentiful and tasty.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The hike in the Alpe di Siusi took my breath away."
Raymond
Tour: 07/15/24
Overall rating:
The chosen locations and the corresponding hotels were nice choices and I really enjoyed my stay at them. I have to say that I was extremely disappointed in the amount of smoking at the various locations, with the notable exceptions of Lauterbrunnen and Chamonix. I know that the mantra is to not complain, but I should not have to ignore/turn off healthy living as its associated lifestyles. I have to say that I was completely unprepared for the very poor lifestyle choices being made there.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Alps hikes, Alpe de Siusi, the Panoramaweg including the Royal Climb. I did an ad hoc parasail in Chaminix which I loved!!!"
Lani
Tour: 07/15/24
Overall rating:
I loved this tour. There were so many opportunities to hike up into the beautiful alps. Every town we stayed in was unique and every day was full of exciting adventures.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"It’s hard to single out one moment. There were so many outstanding vistas and experiences. The most memorable for me was hiking Le Brévant to La Flégère with the never-ending views of Mont Blanc."
Leigh Ann
Tour: 07/08/24
Overall rating:
This was my first time in Europe, not knowing what to expect in each country. Everyone was extremely nice, all hotel rooms were comfortable and felt safe while staying there. Daughter and I hit the ground running trying to see as much as possible. Super impressed with our tour guide and bus driver.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Paragliding in Switzerland. "
Ed
Tour: 07/08/24
Overall rating:
For the amount of time/days spent, there were too many destinations and not enough time spent in the locations we valued most.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"All of the mountains were wow moments The Dolomites, the mountains surrounding Lautebrunnen and Chamonix/Mont Blanc."
Christine
Tour: 07/08/24
Overall rating:
This was the best vacation I have ever taken. I am not sure I could ever top this one. It was my first Rick Steve’s tour and my first time to Europe.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Looking out my door from my hotel room to the Lauterbrunnen Valley. It looked like a green screen - not real and so incredibly gorgeous."
Judith
Tour: 07/08/24
Overall rating:
Excellent: great itinerary, great accommodations, great tour guide., great transportation.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Alpe do Suisi hikes and Swiss hikes. "
Elaine
Tour: 07/08/24
Overall rating:
This tour exceeded my expectations. Coming from the Pacific NW, it takes a lot to take my breath away. I have to say, the places we went were constantly doing that. I have not been everywhere on earth, but I can't imagine somewhere that would be more beautiful than the Alps. Every day just got better and better and our hotels were fantastic. We were so lucky to have absolutely perfect weather every day.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"It's really hard to pick one wow moment since after the first day, I was trying to find words besides wow and beautiful that could adequately describe what my eyes were seeing. Unbelievably, fantastically gorgeous. But if I had to pick one moment, it was when we entered our room in Chamonix and the large window looked out on the Aguille de Midi. It stopped me in my tracks."
Patricia
Tour: 07/03/24
Overall rating:
This was my second Rick Steves tour first your way and it was excellent Driver and manager super and very helpful we had other families with teens and that was nice too although sadly the group only really started to come together much later in the tour.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Murren and everything about that valley "
Patricia
Tour: 07/03/24
Overall rating:
well planned itinerary allows me to relax while also ticking off bucket list items and more
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Top of Mount Blanc"
Andrew
Tour: 07/03/24
Overall rating:
We loved the My Way tour! It was the perfect way to experience the Alps on our honeymoon. Our guide was friendly and helpful, and the hotels and locations we stayed in were 10/10! We would recommend the My Way tour to anyone!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Staying in Murren above the Lauterbrunnen Valley was just magical. With the Jung Frau, the Monch, and the Eiger just across the valley like a painting, we spent three nights with our jaws dropped. "
William
Tour: 07/03/24
Overall rating:
I had a great time on the trip. I really appreciate the my way tour format and loved the alps
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Going up to the aiguille du midi on a clear morning "
Tessa
Tour: 07/03/24
Overall rating:
Love the different locations and our tour manager,Laurel, was awesome at making suggestions on activities
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The cows, everywhere we hiked and their bells"
David
Tour: 07/03/24
Overall rating:
We had a wonderful time! We took our 12 year old granddaughter along and she really enjoyed the experience. It was all we had hoped for in a visit to one of the more scenic parts of Europe.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Mont Blanc. Going up to the Aguille du Midi and taking a long hike afterwards. What a beautiful Alpine experience. "
Jennifer
Tour: 07/03/24
Overall rating:
This was the perfect trip for our active family, we love hiking and the great outdoirs. We loved the opportunity to travel with a group but also hike at our own pace and level of intensity
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Murren- staying cliffside allowed us to really enjoy the hiking and stay ahead of the crowds visiting from the valley"
Micayla
Tour: 07/03/24
Overall rating:
It was really great!!!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"I loved Fussen and Chamonix!! Plus the amazing people and tour guide!"
Aaron
Tour: 07/03/24
Overall rating:
I loved the My Way tour format. I would definitely be interested in more My Way tours in the future.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Taking the cable car to Murren and realizing that this beautiful place would be our home for the next three nights."
John
Tour: 07/01/24
Overall rating:
We had the best tour guide, Don, which made our experience exceptional. He was available every morning and evening to consult with and he is very knowledgeable about the local trails at each location where we traveled too. He also was instrumental in making everyone feel comfortable during the entire tour as well as creating the opportunity to quickly get acquainted with our fellow tourists. It was the best Rick Steves tour that we have experienced to date as this was our fourth trip.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The first walk on a trail at the Italian Alps. It was breath taking!"
Connie
Tour: 07/01/24
Overall rating:
We love the "My Way" tours because we get to all the places we want to be, and can do whatever we like when we get there. Having the lodging and transportation taken care of is convenient and less stressful.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking in the Lauterbrunnen Valley!"
Nancy
Tour: 07/01/24
Overall rating:
Our guide, Don C. , was outstanding!!! The tour went as planned, the bus driver’s driving was safe and efficient,
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Bolzano’s witches trail. "
Megan
Tour: 07/01/24
Overall rating:
I had a great time on the tour! I did do the 21 best of Europe tour earlier in the summer and went to 2 of the same spots but still had a great time again in both those spots.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking in the dominates in Italy "
Lynn
Tour: 07/01/24
Overall rating:
Don and Agustin were excellent: just the right amount of information insight and help to make our Alps My Way trip an epic vacation.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Crossing the first platform on the glacier panorama gondola ride into Italy. I'm still trying to wrap my head around that!"
Neva
Tour: 07/01/24
Overall rating:
This was my 17th Rick Steve’s Europe tour & my 4th My Way Alpine tour. As an older single traveler I like the security of a group experience. Great guides or tour managers have enhanced each of my tours.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Seeing more waterfalls than I had ever seen before in Lauterbrunnen Valley due to some recent rain in the area. A definent WOW moment."
Kathy
Tour: 06/26/24
Overall rating:
We had a great time on our first My Way trip. The combination of beautiful sites and scenery, an outstanding tour manager and a wonderful group of people to travel with made this trip a winner and we are so happy that we did it. Highly recommend!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"So many wows on this trip! For us, I would say that seeing the Eiger, Monch, and Jungfrau from Schilthorn was a highlight as well as hiking in the Alpe di Siusi as a close second. "
Gary
Tour: 06/26/24
Overall rating:
This was our first Rick Steves tour and we really enjoyed our My Way experience. Having RS handle the hotels and transportation, while allowing us to plan how to spend our time worked out perfectly! Really appreciated the organization and professionalism of our tour Manager, Axel. He was incredible. With the daily postings and the communication on What’s App, we always knew what was going on. We were also fortunate to have a really great group of travelers on our trip; awesome experience!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Having 10 days in the Alps makes for one big Wow moment. The two that stand out were hiking at Alpe di Suise and in the Lauterbrunnen area of Switzerland . After a cloudy day in Murren, we woke up to crystal clear skies, making for incredible views and hiking. The view from Mannlichen Royal Walk of the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau were off the charts gorgeous. Also very much enjoyed simply sitting at side walk cafes with a nice glass of wine and watching the world go by. Very relaxing!"
Tamara Shawn
Tour: 06/26/24
Overall rating:
Our My Way Alpine Tour was more than we could have imagined. It was thrilling to be transported by gondolas and trams to view the majestic Alps in multiple countries. Our Tour manager, Axel, went above and beyond to provide information on great choices to explore in each country that we visited. We loved Salzburg and our hikes in the Dolomites, visits to the castles in Fussen, visits to the Waterfalls and Schilthorn in Lauterbrunnen, and enjoying the views from Le Brevent in the French Alps.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My wow moment was staying in the little village of Murren, Switzerland. We took the tram up to Birg and Schilthorn. The Skyline walk was thrilling, and walking out on the trails of the Schilthorn with the Alpine views, we experienced the majestic. It was a feeling like no other. We will never forget it. Our tour group became a family as well. Our tour manager, Axel, an exceptional human being, had the unique ability to bring everyone together with his care and regard for each individual. Thanks"
Stephen
Tour: 06/26/24
Overall rating:
We had a wonderful experience from start to finish! Our Tour Manager, Axel, was outstanding in every way! He was always available to answer most all of my questions and/or requests. The drive times were managed well and the hotels were upscale. The two day stays were nice because we were able to get a great feel for the townships we were visiting along the way. And, of course the hikes and views were awesome!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My favorite "wow" moment or moments happened in Lauterbrunnen Valley, staying in Murren, hiking the Schilthorn and especially hiking to and up into Trummelbach Falls. The falls visit is a must do!!!"
Karen
Tour: 06/26/24
Overall rating:
Axel was an awesome tour manager ~ good humoured, patient, informative, generous with his time and guidance, and punctual. Our group was easy going and respectful, and meshed nicely, making it fun. On a different note, I can’t say that all of our rooms were pleasant, but they were all adequate, and some a delight!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Seizer Alm & Aiguille du Midi! "
Rick
Tour: 06/26/24
Overall rating:
The scenery was consistently jaw-dropping, the accommodations very comfortable and quaint, and the opportunities to explore “our own way” plentiful and wonderful. Axel was the perfect tour manager, so knowledgeable, so generous with his time, so gracious and so patient with all the questions!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"I think seeing Kastelruth and Seiser Alm in full glory - gorgeous weather, thousands of acres of wildflowers, spectacular vistas, colorful townspeople, ample dining opportunities - all conspired to make Kastelruth a highlight. "
Kathleen
Tour: 06/26/24
Overall rating:
Beautiful mountains, enchanting hotels, local breakfast, fun like minded people
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Taking the gondola to Mürren and sawing the mountains above and the valley below"
Judy
Tour: 06/26/24
Overall rating:
We didn’t know whether a My Way tour would be a letdown from previous Rick Steves tours. IT WASN’T!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Taking gondolas to the top of Europe: Zugspitze, Jungfrau and Aguille du Midi"
Bryan Lee
Tour: 06/24/24
Overall rating:
Exceeded all expectations. The flexibility a “my way” tour provides coupled with having the hotel/transportation handled made for a perfect vacation. Every one of the wonderful people we traveled with had a unique experience in each location that we shared over drinks at the end of the day. Our absolutely AMAZING tour manager Brian Swanson got to know each of us and made recommendations for activities/sights/meals based on our individual preferences. Brian made a great vacation even better
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Drinking from a natural spring and eating wild strawberries during a rafting trip down the Arve river in Chamonix "
Angela
Tour: 06/24/24
Overall rating:
Great locations. Fun group of people. We had Larby, the greatest bus driver again. Loved the hotels because they are right in the heart of the towns. Brian Swanson, our “escort”, was very helpful. He touched base frequently before and after each days events. I like the community rooms in several of the hotels because our group could gather and chat, snack, watch the Euros or play a game.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Alpe di Siusi was my “wow” of Italy. Some beautiful and peaceful. We completed the Panoramic Hike plus the little extra uphill parts. I enjoyed biking in Füssen to the castles. My “wow” was the ride up and the walk up to Neuschwanstein. Switzerland “wow” was the peaceful North Face hike, where you can hear people talking but they are floating by in a paraglider. Just so many beautiful places! "
Kate
Tour: 06/24/24
Overall rating:
The locations, accommodations, recommended activities, bus, bus driver and especially our tour guide Brian were all outstanding. This was my 5th Rick Steve's tour and by far my favorite!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Our wow moment was hiking the switch back trails to the ridgeline of Alpe de Suisse. The views were astounding!"
Kenneth
Tour: 06/24/24
Overall rating:
It was fantastic and Brian was an amazing, well-organized guide.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking the floor of Lauterbrunnen Valley and seeing Trummelbach Falls."
Rhonnda
Tour: 06/24/24
Overall rating:
Itinerary traveling through the Alps was good and well planned. Our tour guide, Brian, was knowledgeable, available, helpful, and kind. Scenery was spectacular. Tour mates were fun and interesting.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The mountains; beautiful, tall, rugged, green🗻🏔️🏞️"
Holly
Tour: 06/24/24
Overall rating:
What a great experience! The people were great. Our tour manager was SO helpful and fun. The places we stayed and experiences we had - all just amazing. I really like the MY Way tour and the Alps are spectacular!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"So many. Hard to say but for me, Lauterbrunnen valley. The town was just the right size - quaint but with all the amenities. The waterfalls spectacular especially when lit up at night. watching parasailers and BASE jumpers. Going up to more quaint towns part way up the mountains. I mean my biggest WOW was the snow top mountains but Lauterbrunnen was another pinch me moment kind of place"
Sue
Tour: 06/24/24
Overall rating:
Our guide, Brian Swanson was excellent. He was very informative and knowledgeable about the areas we went to. He was kind and funny and engaging. There to help every step of the way. He also made the bus rides enjoyable.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Everything about the Swiss Alps was amazing."
Edward
Tour: 06/24/24
Overall rating:
First My Way tour and it was perfect for this itinerary! Brian was a fantastic tour leader - great organizer, wickedly good sense of humor, full of great information and ideas. Accommodations were excellent in quality and location. Highly recommend this tour!!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Paragliding in the Lauterbrunnen valley!!!"
Joe
Tour: 06/24/24
Overall rating:
Always a great experience on a Rick Steves trip. The accommodations , hotels , organization were spot on. They put you in great locations, hard not to enjoy your sites and overall experience's.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Even though we been there before, the Switzerland experience , to me is the best. In my opinion it does not get any better than that ! The views will be forever lasting. "
Shirley
Tour: 06/12/24
Overall rating:
This was our first RS tour (first tour of any kind) and it was incredible! I truly appreciated our helpful and fun tour manager Laurel and our great bus driver Frankie. Each place we visited was better than the last. Even with initially disappointing weather for hiking in the Dolomites, it turned out to be a memorable day, and the mountains came out of the clouds while we were on our hike! We had a great group of people on our tour which only made the entire experience even better.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"So many! A very moving recital by extremely talented students at the Mozarteum University in Salzburg, riding E Bikes through the countryside near Fussen, the absolutely awe inspiring view from our balcony in Wengen, the North Face hike near Mürren, and the indescribable views at the top of the Aiguiille du Midi. "
Isabelle
Tour: 06/12/24
Overall rating:
My overall tour experience was wonderful! Laurel was a great tour guide. She gave us helpful information but did not give us to many items to consider.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My favorite "wow" moment on the tour was when we went to the Wagen. Our view from our hotel was amazing! I loved Hotel Regina the best. "
Lawrence
Tour: 06/12/24
Overall rating:
The tour was fantastic in every way. I was not all that familiar with some of the places we ended up staying but after visiting I understood why they had been chosen as each destination offered great experiences. Our tour manager Laurel was fantastic as well as the other travelers on the tour.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"When we checked into our hotel in Wengen, Switzerland and got to our room I stepped outside on the balcony to one of the most awe inspiring views in the world of the Alps and the Lauterbrunnen Valley. I've never had that kind of a view from any place I've ever stayed in my life."
Kelly
Tour: 06/12/24
Overall rating:
The tour was great! We enjoyed all the locations and very much enjoyed our tour guide, and fellow tour members. We would even consider doing this same tour again.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The awe-inspiring views of the Alps"
Benjamin
Tour: 06/12/24
Overall rating:
This was an absolutely fantastic trip! Traveling by bus really allows you to see a lot more of the surrounding area. Seeing five different cities in two weeks is a really incredible experience, and it really kept every day new and interesting. The whole trip offers a range of activities from hiking the tallest mountain to relaxing on a hotel balcony and enjoying the breath-taking views.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My favorite "wow" moment from the entire tour was walking out on our balcony at Hotel Regina in Wengen, Switzerland on a clear, sunny day and seeing the Eiger, Monk, and Jungfrau directly in front of us. We also could see four large waterfalls in the valley from the same spot. This view captivated us all so much that we took pictures nearly every time we looked out of the window. "
Jennifer
Tour: 06/12/24
Overall rating:
This was our first "my way" tour, and it exceeded all expectations. The convenience of the travel, the chosen locations to visit, the benefit of a tour guide, and the group camaraderie made it all so memorable. Having a bus made it possible for us to sit back and enjoy all the scenery of the 5 countries we visited.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My favorite moment was renting e-bikes in Fussen, Germany, and riding the 20 mile trail around the lake Forggensee. Our ride was full of incredible scenery of the 2 castles (Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein), beautiful farmland and the lake. It was really magical."
Mitzi
Tour: 06/12/24
Overall rating:
This Alpine adventure will forever be remembered by our family of 5 adults as incredible, wonderful & magical. Tour guide, Laural, was fantastic! Shared tons of knowledge about upcoming stops & tidbits to save us time/ $, answered ALL Q's. Full of joy & laughter making whole experience brighter & happy even when mountains weren't visible due 2 weather or unexpected traffic jam came along. Laural & driver, Franky, worked very well together. Felt like our entire group was family. LOVED it all!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Wengen, Switzerland! My life will forever be changed by the views of those grandAlpine mountains in that idyllic mountain village. The scenery leading into Switzerland was also stunning. Having a balcony that you could sit and gaze upon the mountains and hear the almost silent atmosphere was one of the best moments in my life. Hotel Regina was amazing! All the breakfasts at every hotel were wonderful with excellent service. The beautiful scenery along the bus route also took our breath away !"
Ann
Tour: 06/12/24
Overall rating:
It was all about the scenery and the scenery was magnificent - when we could see it. The trip was a bit rushed, changing towns a bit too often. All of our travel companions were very nice. Laurel was cheerful and helpful and the bus driver was great!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The scenery was beautiful and not just the peaks, but all the lush green hillsides and valleys and waterfalls. the beautiful scenery continued during our bus rides."
Carol
Tour: 06/12/24
Overall rating:
This was our first Rick Steves tour and experience. We chose it because we loved the idea of touring and hiking in the Alps with the advantage of ground transportation and hotels arranged for us. Bonus point for this tour: making our own plans for the day, but having a knowledgable and friendly expert tour manager to help with insights and questions was fantastic. Laurel was amazing!! Second bonus: really fun people to share the tour with. We made new lifetime friends and loved it.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My favorite "wow" moment, there many, was the entire time in the Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland area. I loved going up to Schilthorn and having an early brunch at the Piz Gloria revolving restaurant and taking in the stunning views. The thrill walk in Birg was exciting and the downhill hiking through Gimmelwald to Murren was gorgeous. The views from the room balconies at Hotel Regina in Wengen were stunning - we ate there just to take in the views as long as possible."
Anne
Tour: 06/10/24
Overall rating:
Well this was our very first tour. And, I must say Gretchen, was amazing. She was patient beyond belief. Kind and knowledgeable n extremely helpful. We loved her. I’m from New York n not easily impressed bt, she was awesome.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"So many! Hard to say. We were blessed w great weather. I would hafta say, the Swiss Alps. "
Gary
Tour: 06/10/24
Overall rating:
Enjoyed it very much, we were lucky on weather. A lot of what we saw, went, did was somewhat dependent on the weather as to how much we got out of it and how much we enjoyed it
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Schlitlehorn"
Phil
Tour: 06/10/24
Overall rating:
Overall experience was outstanding. We went on three fabulous hikes in beautiful surroundings. The My Way format allowed for great flexibility. Great tour.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The snowy peaks seen from the North Face Trail (above Mürren) contrasting with the green fields covered with wild flowers."
Laura
Tour: 06/10/24
Overall rating:
I thought the trip was well organized and couldn’t have gone better. We had a wonderful time.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking in the Dolomites and Switzerland. "
Jennifer
Tour: 06/10/24
Overall rating:
The My Way Alpine Tour was a perfect combination of efficiency of planning and doing things on your own. We had the opportunity to meet new people, set our own daily schedule, see gorgeous places, eat fabulous food and hike with cows.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Walking the Trail of the Witches in the Dolomites was just spectacular. There was a smattering of snow on the ground, there were cows with cowbells grazing, tons of wildflowers- each new view of the mountains more beautiful than the last. However I could just as easily have chosen Ötsi the Iceman or the Lauterbrunnen Valley."
Joan
Tour: 06/10/24
Overall rating:
It was a wonderfully enjoyable Alpine adventure tour beginning in lovely Salzburg with incredible lifts, trains and gondola rides to picturesque mountain peaks and amazingly scenic hiking. We had a truly great experience!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There were a few “wow” moments, but one was when we reached our hotel Staubbach in the Lauterbrunnen Valley and walked into our room with a balcony overlooking the beautiful Staubbach waterfall, and another special moment was when we took three lifts and a train to the top of the Schilthorn at about 10,000 feet on a gorgeous sunny day. It was absolutely breathtaking."
Catherine
Tour: 06/10/24
Overall rating:
In one word, Magical. The Alpine My Way tour itinerary is amazing, 5 countries all circling the Alps! Wow! Nirvana. It was well curated, with daily schedule and suggestions for activities. Our Trip leader, Gretchen, was so upbeat and positive; always prepared us for each day and made herself available for questions or suggestions. BRAVO!. The hotels were perfectly located, convenient, not fancy but clean, comfortable, friendly all with terrific breakfasts. Lauterbrunnen - my Happy Place
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The mountain views on the Witches Hike in the Dolomites made my body tingle from head to toes, a pulsing series of pinch me moments. Enjoying lunch on the deck of the Arnika Hutte -I imagined I was in a Rick Steves video and people we watching us on TV wishing they could be there. The mountain scenery, the blossoming meadow flowers, all of the Lauterbrunnen mountain landscape. WOW moments every time I turned a bend. "
Julie
Tour: 06/10/24
Overall rating:
Being my first tour that I’ve taken it went well beyond my expectations. It was nice having the logistics taken care of but still allowed me the freedom to decide what I wanted to do at each location.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Beautiful wildflowers and views on the 3 Sisters hike in the Italian Dolomites."
Lori
Tour: 06/10/24
Overall rating:
I was impressed with the quality of the tour. I was apprehensive about the time on the bus but was pleasantly surprised. The time went by fast due the big windows on our roomy bus allowed us to enjoy the scenery, and that the tour manager used this time to give us tips on our My Way tour and to answer questions we had regarding the activities we had planned. Our rest stops were also opportunities to grab a coffee, meal and to shop for souvenirs. The hotels were excellent with great breakfasts.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My “wow” moment(s) was a two parter in the Lauterbrunnen valley in Switzerland. Seeing the Staubbach Falls for the first time was a thrill! The topper was our epic hike on the North Face trail above the valley. My companion and I accidentally met up with some other members of the tour (who lent us hiking sticks) and we enjoyed this Alpine hike in which the wildflower filled scenery was so beautiful it didn’t look real. Not only was this a tour “wow” moment, it was a lifetime “wow” moment."
Janine
Tour: 06/05/24
Overall rating:
My husband and I were extremely satisfied with all aspects of our trip through the Alps. Gregoire was very knowledgeable, patient, and friendly as he presented, and then further explained options as we planned for each new stop along the way. He answered questions each individual group member had about these options, and he also gave advice for what he thought each of us might enjoy the most. This was a wonderful and memorable trip!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The natural beauty we found in the Lauterbrunnen Valley was beyond anything we could have imagined. Words can't describe the feelings we had when hiking in this absolutely spectacular area!"
Ellen
Tour: 06/05/24
Overall rating:
Everything was fantastic! Gregoire was helpful and available when needed. The hotels were located in perfect locations. The bus driver was competent, funny and helpful. .
Favorite "WOW" moment
"When we had a sunny day in Lauterbrunnen valley, and could see the Eiger snd Jungrau."
Philip
Tour: 06/05/24
Overall rating:
My Way is a great way to take the hassle out of arranging transportation and hotels, freeing me up to enjoy the "goodies"- the mountains, cities, company of fellow travelers, etc.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Too difficult to pick one, but Trummelbach Falls was cool."
Katie
Tour: 06/05/24
Overall rating:
The My Way format for the trip was perfect for us. We could challenge ourselves with a good deal of hiking or biking one day and relax and enjoy the shops and restaurants of a special town on another.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking the North Face trail near Murren, Switzerland. How many times can you say ‘Wow’ on one hike?"
Elizabeth
Tour: 06/05/24
Overall rating:
It was great- saw all that I wanted to. Fantastic guide and seamless transitions.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Lauterbrunnen valley , Mozart concert we booked ahead of time in Salzburg "
Robert
Tour: 06/05/24
Overall rating:
Tour leader was excellent. A great way to experience much of the Alps! Hotels very average and some rooms very small.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Experiencing the top of Europe at the Jungfrau. "
Eddie
Tour: 06/05/24
Overall rating:
This was a wonderful tour! Great tour guide -Gregoire he provded us with enough information to plan our time on our own. Good hotels centrally located and clean. We were able to see places we never would have gone to before.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking in the Alpe di Siusi and the Lauterbrunnen -Swiss Alps. We enjoyed lunch in the picturesque mountain hamlet of Gimmelwald. Mozart concert in Saltzburg was wonderful. "
Tom
Tour: 06/05/24
Overall rating:
Amy
Tour: 06/05/24
Overall rating:
The tour guidance and planning was outstanding.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The people on the trip and the Alpe de Suisse in Bolzano Italy."
Cindy
Tour: 06/05/24
Overall rating:
Overall, this tour is fantastic! We loved the locations we visited. This was a wonderful introduction to the Alps. It gave us ideas of where we would like to return and spend additional time.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"One of our "wow" moments was the day we went up to Aiguille du Midi to view Mt. Blanc. The experience being with the Alpinists and watching their descent was amazing. We had a beautiful clear day! Another "wow" moment was hiking in the Lauterbrunnen Valley with mountains all around us, going from village to village and experiencing the abundance of wildflowers. Specifically, we loved the Apple Strudel and North Face Trails."
Nancy
Tour: 06/05/24
Overall rating:
The locations stand on their own as some of the most amazing places in the world. I loved each one. I really appreciated the structure of the RS "My Way" tour - to take care of the logistics of transportation and lodging, and thus allow us to just enjoy each location in the ways that most appealed to us. I enjoyed the interactions with the small group of like-minded travelers and there was more "connection" between us than I expected. Our trip leader, Gregoire, was outstanding.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Jungfraujoch. It was really amazing to be surrounded by the highest peaks and glaciers."
Bill
Tour: 06/05/24
Overall rating:
Perfect
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Crocuses blooming next to snow patches above Wengen and gentians in Alpe di Suisi meadows."
Sarah
Tour: 06/03/24
Overall rating:
This was our first Rick Steves tour and we couldn't have loved it more! We've been to Europe a few times now, some where the entire tour was planned, some where we planned the entire trip ourselves, so we were excited to try an inbetween with this MyWay tour! All of the locations were amazing, Axel was the best tour manager we've ever had, and the group size was perfect!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The witches trail hike in Alpe di Siusi was one of our favorite moments, it was such a beautiful hike!"
Tom
Tour: 06/03/24
Overall rating:
This was our first tour, and we had a great time. Our tour guide, Axel was excellent and the other tour members were very pleasant to travel with. We really appreciated the "My Way" aspect of the tour allowing us to pick what we were most interested in seeing and doing. The bus drive from each site provided beautiful scenery as well as time to prepare to do at the next stop. Only reason for not rating this trip as outstanding was the hotels, while advertised as 3 star were a bit disappointing.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The beauty of most everything we saw, from the architecture of the old cities we visited to the majestic Alps up close and personal. "
Michael
Tour: 06/03/24
Overall rating:
Axel our tour manager did a great job of helping us get the most from our trip.
Bianca
Tour: 06/03/24
Overall rating:
Loved being able to plan our own days while getting moved place to place and helped with our amazing guide Axel. It really helped having someone to answer questions and text throughout the day if we needed info or help!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Our Lauterbrunnen hotel balcony view, I cried when I saw it!"
Tamara
Tour: 06/03/24
Overall rating:
Axel was the best!! Always working so that we had the most up to date information. Plenty of room on travel days.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Scenery was incredible!"
Dea
Tour: 06/03/24
Overall rating:
The pacing and itinerary were nicely challenging but not overwhelming; Axel our guide was top notch and we all appreciated his kindness, calm, and expertise. Peter the driver was friendly and we felt completely safe in his hands. The hotels were in a great location, but perhaps a little too humble in a couple of cases. This was my first My Way tour and I loved every minute. Fellow tour members asked how it compares to regular tours, and I have to say that I enjoy both.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The "Witches Trail" hike in the Alps de Siusi. A young man in our group from Ohio called it "life changing". I'm from Colorado and therefore live in mountains but this tour is full of such beauty that it's hard to pick out one moment. This moment stood out because we had good weather that day, unlike Switzerland which was socked in the whole time! I know this sounds silly but another favorite moment was the Fraulein Maria Bicycle Tour in Salzburg! The Mozart concert in Mirabella Palace too!"
Mark
Tour: 06/03/24
Overall rating:
This “Alpine My Way” tour fit our expectations well. Will participate in another one when possible. Great overview of this region and gave us ideas of where to spend more time on another visit to specific areas of the Alps.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Chamonix Midi gondola and journey to Courmayeur, Italy. The glacier fields were spectacular."
Karen
Tour: 05/29/24
Overall rating:
The tour delivered well. The hotels were nice, the ability to see multiple outstanding locations among the Alps made it unique. I would say that two days in most destinations was not enough to take in all there was to see and do.Three days in each would be better.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Lauterbrunnen Valley is incomparable. It is the most beautiful place I've ever seen. Both from the valley floor and from high up in the mountains. It is simply stunning."
Curtis
Tour: 05/29/24
Overall rating:
This was my first RS Tour. The group situation was a big bonus as all the tour members were outgoing or easygoing, friendly and willing to help and share. The weather for our trip was terrible and although we were all disappointed, no one dwelt on what we could not change and we all made the best of it. All arrangements went smoothly and our guide made everyone feel welcome, part of the group, and he made it all work. The guide did much more for us than I was expecting before the trip.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The hike in and around Gimmelwald -- the photos I have showing the green meadows contrasted with the stark sno covered Eiger and JungFrau are worthy of the label spectacular -- and I felt awed while I was there in the Lauterbrunnen valley."
Cheri
Tour: 05/29/24
Overall rating:
I really enjoyed this My Way tour of the Alps. It was great to be able to plan and do what I was interested in and able to do. Our tour guide Brian was exceptional in his knowledge, helpful advice and was just fun to be around! He more then met my expectations for the trip!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My favorite “wow” moment was seeing the incredible views as I hiked the alps. "
Janet
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
It was a perfect fit for my personality. I loved being able to choose what I wanted to do each day plus not have the stress and hassle of figuring out accommodations and travel arrangements! The tour guide and driver were great and so were the others on the tour. It was so much fun getting to make new friends with people from all parts of America.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Well every bit of scenery was breath taking but I think my unexpected “wow” moment was being in a gorgeous cathedral while a group was practicing music for a worship service. The acoustics made the sound amazing. It was so beautiful, like being in heaven!"
Carole
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
Favorite "WOW" moment
"I throughly enjoyed our time in the Dolomites and Lauterbrunnen Valley. The hotels were terrific and the scenery and overall experience terrific. Only wish we could have stayed longer."
Carol
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
Unfortunately weather did not cooperate.....but when the clouds parted it was gorgeous.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The fabulous fields of wildflowers. "
Mary
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
We had a wonderful experience with My Way Tour and have recommended to many friends since we have returned. The mountains sing to my heart; I feel like I am still glowing from our trip as it was very special. We stayed in five lovely hotels, ease of transportation was taken care of and our tour leader and the book gave us a multitude of options to fill our days. It was activity full and stress free. The Best!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Arriving in Casselrooto and hiking to the church seeing the Dolomites. "
Charles
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
Our guide did a great job of getting us prepped for each location and helping us get to know each other. The hotels were nice and the bus and driver were great. The scenery was spectacular.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Two wow moments- when the fog and cloud lifted during our hike in Castleroot and we could suddenly see the alps and the day the skies cleared in Switzerland and we took the gondola up to Mount Shilthorn for amazing views."
Elizabeth
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
Every day was wonderful. Nice balance of time with our group and guide and time to ourselves. Gretchen was such a pro, giving us tips and information about our next destination as we rode in our exceptionally nice bus. The unexpected stops we made in route turned out to be some of my favorite memories, especially Ehrenberg Castle and the chance to walk across the suspension bridge, Highline 179. Huge highlight!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"After a beautiful walk from Murren to Gimmelwald we met several of our new friends from the tour for dinner at the Pension Gimmelwald Restaurant. It wasn’t as much about the food as it was the cozy, low-key atmosphere. Great dark beer and friendly service. The restaurant felt like authentic Switzerland, giving us a wonderfully relaxed evening. Perfect way to spend time getting to know our new friends and having lots of laughs."
Steven Chad
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
Our tour guide Gretchen was amazing and very helpful. She was truly passionate about every stop on the tour and shared that passion with us all. The hotels were great. Our group all got along well. We have future travel friends for sure. I have never seen anything like the Alps. Amazingly beautiful. 10 out of 10!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Lauterbrunnen Valley was the most beautiful place I have ever seen. It was better than I could have imagined. I was able to parasail through the valley which was the event of a lifetime. The only thing on the trip I would have changed is to have one more day in Lauterbrunnen. There just wasn’t enough time to see it all. "
Wendy
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
Everything was exceptional from our tour guide, hotels, bus driver, our group that quickly became friends, and the locations we visited!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My favorite wow moment was pulling into the Lauterbrunnen valley in Switzerland. I was in awe and continued to be the next 3 days we spent there."
Joy
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
I was not sure what to expect with a "my way" tour. I have done fully guided tours for international travel in the past. I really enjoyed and appreciated this method. We had the autonomy to pick and choose our activities each day but had great guidance and structure to do this from. I also enjoyed the group aspect of this trip as well.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"We had several days of rain and our first day in the Lauterbrunnen valley was cloudy and rainy. The second morning the sun came out and from our hotel windows/deck we witnessed the Swiss Mountain view for the first time. It was breathtaking!! I just soaked in the view and the surrounding valley with all of it's waterfalls and was amazed! "
Kathleen
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
Our trip was fantastic because while Rick Steves and our guide Gretchen took care of all logistics--hotels with complete breakfasts and transport between stays--we researched and did exactly what we wanted to do in each location. From city exploration to Berchtesgaden, a Mozart string quartet in Mirabel Palace to the many (often wet) hikes, we did exactly what we wanted to do. Loved it!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There were many, but after hiking a very muddy and wet North Face Trail out of Murren in Lauterbrunnen Valley, we walked down switchbacks through the most diverse and gorgeous wildflowers into Gimmelwald. The flowers were beautiful and such a gift."
Randall
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
Pleasantly surprised since this was my first RST and given the relatively large group size.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Unzi museum"
Mark
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
All of the accommodations were great. Nice locations and friendly staff. The bus transportation between sites was wonderful. Our guide, Gretchen, did a nice job of informing us of sites of interest as we traveled and made a number of good recommendations on hikes, restaurants and local points of interest. Gretchen also did a nice job of helping the members of the group develop relationships through optional happy hours and an optional "tour dinner". I felt very comfortable with the group.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Lauterbrunnen Valley and Trummelback Falls were the highlight of my trip. Spectacular!"
Anne
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
The Alpine Europe My Way tour was just the right combination of "provided" transport, lodging and daily guidance on offer, combined with freedom of schedule and daily itinerary. Our guide, Gretchen, and all the tour members were a friendly & energizing boon to experiencing a beautiful spring in parts of five countries. Good info provided ahead, combined with daily logistics' suggestions made it easy. And the extras of long lunch stops in Innsbruck and Lucerne were welcome treats.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"While historic city architecture and amazing musical moments in churches and palaces will be forever memories, my cumulative Wow(s) were the truly-awe-inspiring high peaks notching out of clouds above Lauterbrunnen and Chamonix, and also from the meadows above Castlerotto and the historic castles near Fussen."
Hollis
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
Our group of travelers were a joy to be with and get to know. Our tour guide Gretchen led the way with enthusiasm, years of area travel knowledge and command of words. The bus and expert driver moved us smoothly on our journey through the mountains to every planned tour stop and surprise stops (because the timing was right) to show us another view. It's a bit hit or miss sometimes with high altitude weather and lifts but there is always a alternate plan to hold your interest.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Definitely the Lauterbrunnen Valley and an exhilarating hike on the "North Face Trail" which encompassed a very rainy picnic lunch standing under a ski lift chair gear (only place that was dry), hiking down a combination of gravel road, grass, snow, muddy rocky path. Viewing peak a boo mountain views as the rain letup, experiencing high alpine flower varieties as we descended down to rest our very out of shape Swiss hiking legs at Pension Gimmelwald Restaurant with a tall dark beer & meal ."
Karen
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
This was my second Rick Steves tour. To celebrate my daughter’s turning 30 I took them each on a Rick Steves tour. The my way alpine tour was a perfect tour for my travel loving adventurous seeking daughter. We had an amazing time.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My favorite wow moment was when we walked to the St. Valentin church in Castelrotto. The weather could not have been more beautiful and walking through the meadow with the wild flowers on either side of us was just a magical moment. "
Shirley
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
Overall, very nice and enjoyable, bus and tour guided excellent. Enjoyed the hotels and locations
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Lauterbrunnen and Mt. Blanc"
Michael
Tour: 05/27/24
Overall rating:
Having strategic hotel relationships, a well informed and personable guide and very safe and nice ground transportation, allowed us to thoroughly enjoy so much of every day, it made the trip remarkable!!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Probably walking out from our bedroom onto our deck at Hotel Staubach and looiking out into Lauterbrunnen valley and waterfalls. Our whole group was “wowed”!!!"
Thomas Wayne
Tour: 05/20/24
Overall rating:
This was our 5th RS tour and 2nd My Way. We were not disappointed. We enjoyed all of the locales and the opportunities they afforded. We were delighted with the whistle stops along the way: Innsbruck, Luzern and Gruyeres. Our group was amiable and our tour leader, Axel, was full of good advice.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The peaks and valleys in the Swiss Alps. A favorite day began with a bus, train and cable car trip to the Piz Gloria and Schilthorn summit, followed lunch on a terrace in Murren, then a stroll on a country lane in Gimmewald, and finally dinner at a pub in Lauterbrunnen, with a view of the Staubbach falls."
Laura
Tour: 05/20/24
Overall rating:
Spectacular views, stress free travel, new friendships, and lifelong memories. Axel was our tour guide and he was one of the most other focused humans I've ever met. At the start of the trip he asked each of us individually to share some of our interests (i.e. hiking, adventure, food, etc.) and he was able to share information that was personally relevant to each of us as a result of learning from us. He made everything easier, and my partner and I wouldn't have gotten to Murren without him!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Gosh, hard to name just one. Snowball fights with my parents in the Dolomites, the breathtaking views of Lauterbrunnen valley from our hotel, Jungfrau splendor, and enjoying the beauty of the alps over a cup of hot chocolate as the sun sets from the the Edelweiss hotel in Murren are a few. One favorite moments was coming back to the hotel, thinking that we were done for the night, running into Axel, getting asked a couple of questions, and realizing we could still get to Murren, and we did! "
Richard
Tour: 05/20/24
Overall rating:
Spectacular scenery! Outstanding tour guide! Enjoyable travel companions! Well organized for maximum tour experiences! The bus was comfortable and drivers did a very good job! The opportunities for exploration, hiking, personal time and learning were excellent! I throughly enjoyed the breakfasts at each hotel and comradity! This is a fabulous tour I would not have changed one thing! Thank you Rick Steves for having such a wonderful tour guide Axel!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Very difficult to choose between the Dolimites, Hallstadf ((Austrias Pearl) the drives thru Switzerland and Austria and the view from our room in Ladrbrunnel Valley of 3 waterfalls and snow cover red mountains!"
Michelle
Tour: 05/20/24
Overall rating:
Amazing! We were with a fantastic group of people and our tour leader, Axel Thorson, ensured that we all had a complete experience. Every hotel was well situated and the towns were charming. On this tour, we had three surprise lunch stops: Lucerne, Innsbruck and Gruyeres. Also, the weather gods were on our side and we had terrific weather. Some lasting friendships were made and some of my bucket list items were checked off. What more could a gal want for?
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Never just one! The weeping Lion (Lucerne lunch stop). The Dominican Church and Otzi the Iceman (Bolsano). The Schilthorn, Piz Gloria and Jungfraujoch (Lauterbrunnen). Lunch with our new friend, Sarah, on the cliffside in Murren. Walking through lovely Halstatt. Finding the Olympic rings monument commemorating the first Olympic Games in Chamonix. We also thoroughly enjoyed the charm of Gruyeres. "
Gregory
Tour: 05/20/24
Overall rating:
The tour was great. We did not expect so much help and guidance from the tour manager, but Axel was excellent. So much information and logistics that helped us have a great trip. The hotels were great too.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Probably when we saw the waterfalls from our room in Lauterbrunnen. "
Dennis
Tour: 05/20/24
Overall rating:
Over all the trip was great. Most everything exceed my expectations.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Looking out the window of our room in Lauterbrunnen seeing the water falls, valley and mountains beyond."
Janet
Tour: 05/20/24
Overall rating:
My Way Alpine was my first experience on a "My Way" tour. I appreciated having my accommodations and transportation provided on the tour and relished researching the available activities for each stop. Our tour manager, Axel, was thoughtful and organized. He oriented us to each new city and made himself available to discuss individual plans with tour members. I loved all of the alpine areas we visited, especially Lauterbrunnen.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Each alpine area was spectacular in its own way - the expressive oboe soloist at the Mirabelle Palace Concert Hall, the full moon over the Dolomites, the innumerable waterfalls in the Lauterbrunnen Valley, the clearing sky at the top of the Zugspitze, and, of course, Black Forest Cake at Hotel Stechelberg after walking the length of the Lauterbrunnen Valley. Wow moments every day."
Korey
Tour: 05/20/24
Overall rating:
Great tour. Tour director Axel was very knowledgeable and was always thinking ahead to try and give us the best experience. The tour was well planned and hotels were comfortable. The one hotel didn’t have a TV but we had an amazing view of the falls. This tour gives you freedom to do whatever you want, which we liked because everyone has different interests.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Loved old town salzburg and Füssen was amazing"
George
Tour: 05/20/24
Overall rating:
This was our first Rick Steves tour and I highly recommend it. A number of people on our tour had done 3 or more so that says a lot. I can't say enough good things about this tour. The organization, hotels, meals, transportation and especially our tour manager (this was a Make Your Own Way tour) were outstanding.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"That's hard to answer but the scenery in Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland was breath taking. It was dramatic with wonderful hiking trails, a beautiful town complete with Rick's promised creaking chalet, cows with Swiss bells in pasture beside the town sidewalks, wonderful food, amazing tram ride with revolving restaurant at the top of Schilthorn, and the mesmerizing small village of Gimmelwald (one of Rick's favorites)."
Martin
Tour: 05/13/24
Overall rating:
We were able to see the areas and sites that were important to us, and even though we were early in the season, the conditions were favorable and allowed us to do what we wanted to do. The people in our group were enjoyable and everyone got along well. And Don, our "guide" was excellent.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Seeing the Eiger up close from Kliene Scheidegg. All the history and drama from that mountain came alive as we sat at the base and took it all in."
Rosemarie
Tour: 05/13/24
Overall rating:
This was our first My Way Vacation with Rick Steves. We had taken two other tours over the past tow years which we loved. We were very pleased with the pace of this tour. We loved all of the hotels and their locations. Our bus driver was great and made us feel very safe traveling the windy mountain roads. Although it was My Way, our tour manager was always ready with suggestions and help The only thing that I might have changed was to go a little later in May because some lifts were closed.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Although there were many, I think that the one that stands out in my mind was when we walked from Mürren to Gimmelwald. The scenery was breathtaking and you almost felt that it couldn’t be real. The hike was along a gentle downhill path, an easy walk. Definitely not to be missed! We hiked the path with some of our fellow tour mates and had a great time stopping for a cold drink at the end of the walk. "
Robert
Tour: 05/13/24
Overall rating:
Don Chmura was an exceptional guide, especially since he lived in and wrote a hiking guide book for the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Lauterbrunnen Valley, Muren, Schilthorn panarama, hike down to Gimmelwald and stechelberg to Trummelbachfalle"
Pattie
Tour: 05/13/24
Overall rating:
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The beautiful fields of wild flowers in the Lauterbrunen Valley with the stunning alps in the background."
Rob
Tour: 05/13/24
Overall rating:
Great tour and guide
Favorite "WOW" moment
"seeing Bertesgarden"
James
Tour: 05/13/24
Overall rating:
I thought the tour was great! The locations and the hotels were very good. Our tour director (Don)gave some good advice and the information he provided along the way helped me and Rosemarie to make good decisions about what to do each day. We also used Rick's book for hikes , tours and restaurants he recommended which helped us to have a great time. The people on the tour were fun to be with and this added another positive element to the tour. We really enjoyed planning each day.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The walk between Murren and Gimmelwald was really a beautiful time. We really enjoyed it walking together with other members of the tour and the scenery was breath taking!"
Audrey
Tour: 05/13/24
Overall rating:
The group was amazing with everyone having a positive attitude even with less than perfect weather conditions. Don, our tour manager was superb with excellent information and suggestions on how to make the most of each place we visited. The. My Way tour was perfect for us as our interest in activities was different from most and this allowed a group experience as well as independence. As always, the organization of a Rick Steves was fantastic.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Being in Kleine Scheidegg for a couple of hours with clear views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. Absolutely beautiful and awe inspiring. "
Tim
Tour: 09/18/23
Overall rating:
Once again Rick Steves delivered what he promises and my wife and I expected! Hotels were nice but the big advantage is their location next to the town you want to walk through. Bus and bus driver were excellent and our tour manager was informative, friendly and gracious.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The tram rides up the mountain sides to the spectacular views of the Alps and Dolomites!"
Judith
Tour: 09/18/23
Overall rating:
My first My Way tour but my 10th RS tour, I had the trip of a lifetime. My tourmates were friendly and fun loving, our Tour Manager, Grégoire, was hard working and helpful with the logistics of doing things on my own and Rob, our bus driver, was a sweet guy very experienced with driving on narrow, windy mountain roads. We became a merry band of travelers in the Rick Steves style. We were blessed with beautifully blue sunny skies and temperatures in the 70’s. Hiking in the Alps was a dream!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking in the Dolomites and hiking in the Swiss Alps were the top Wow moments for me. I also loved the Happy Hours and group dinner that Grégoire organized for us. Salzburg- Mozart concerts, Mozart Haus, Hellbrunn Palace, attending mass in the Salzburg Cathedral and having as much time as I wanted to explore these sights. Eating dinner in a Biergarten with locals was fun as well. The Alpine tour is one of my favorites!"
Richard
Tour: 09/18/23
Overall rating:
Great selection of towns and hotels. Ou leader was very helpful explaining local attractions, providing orientation and advice.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The views from up in the mountains was incredible."
Pamela
Tour: 09/18/23
Overall rating:
Excellent organization in all facets of the tour. Lovely hotels, in perfect locations. Included breakfasts were fresh and delicious with wide variety of choices. Tour director gave clear and most helpful suggestions every day and was easily available. We loved the “my way” tour… allowing us to do as much or little in each stop. The bus was high end, friendly driver provided beverages at most reasonable prices.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Looking out our bedroom window in Lauterbrunnen to a spectacular view of the lighted waterfall. "
Lynn
Tour: 09/13/23
Overall rating:
Loved the tour experience with the other guests. Warm, friendly atmosphere. Great tour director who went beyond our expectations with information and kindnesses.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"It's our first trip outside the United States and were blown away with the scenery and accommodations. Most moments were wow moments!"
Michael
Tour: 09/13/23
Overall rating:
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There were at least four. The three summits to highest peaks and the cow parade in Wengen"
Richard
Tour: 09/13/23
Overall rating:
Very, very positive! Words can not discribe the scenery, towns visited, organization, support, and guidance the tour offered.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Arriving at each new stop. Fantastic locations!"
Denise
Tour: 09/11/23
Overall rating:
This was the first tour of any type that my husband and I have taken. We have travelled independently in Europe (always with the help of our Rick Steves guidebooks) for the past 25 years. As we are getting older (77 and 72) we picked this tour for the itinerary, the transportation, and the freedom to pick our own activities. We had confidence that the hotels would be similar to the many Rick Steves picks we have stayed in over the years. The trip did not entirely honor our expectations.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Each stop on the tour offered remarkable wow moments! As I have visited the tour stops before, I will mention a new wow moment for me; the earth pyramids of Ritten/Renon. We found these fabulous natural sculptures on a misty/rainy afternoon walk after our arrival in Bolzano. Amazing!"
Dorie
Tour: 09/11/23
Tour was well organized, had an incredibly helpful and cheerful tour leader, and we loved the flexibility of the "My Way" method of touring
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Stunning beauty of Switzerland"
Doug
Tour: 09/11/23
Overall rating:
The tour was great, the positives were highlighted by the number of countries we toured, but in a way that was also the cause biggest negative, the bus rides, I get that we have to travel to see the sights but bus rides ever other day was not optimal, but the locations were well worth the visit
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Switzerland, was wonderful, but our bike ride in Fussion was the best. "
Blaze
Tour: 09/11/23
Overall rating:
It was a great experience and the choices of towns in the "MY Way" were excellent. The bus ride from country to country was very comfortable and convenient.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"As always the Swiss Alps as their beauty is breath taking. It is something that everyone should experience."
Kathleen
Tour: 09/06/23
Overall rating:
We thoroughly enjoyed the first half of our tour. Unfortunately my husband came down with Covid and we were not able to complete the tour.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking in the Alpe di Siusi! The tranquil meadows surrounded by gorgeous mountains, the cows grazing in the pastures, it was just breathtaking! Didn’t even seem real!"
Maureen
Tour: 09/06/23
Overall rating:
My overall feeling is one of satisfaction for the tour offered.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"One favorite "wow" moment was watching the alpenglow on the Dolomites from the spa veranda's comfortable lounge chair after a swim in their lovely pool in Castelrotto after a fine day of hiking in the Alpe di Siusi."
Rhoda
Tour: 09/06/23
Overall rating:
I loved the hotels we stayed at. The tour guide was excellent. It was a My Way tour, but he was available to answer any questions.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"I loved the Dolomites. We hiked in the Alpe di Siusi. "
Debra
Tour: 09/04/23
Overall rating:
We had an amazing trip experience! The weather was fantastic, the tour manager, Kathleen was extremely knowledgable and gave us great recommendations. Our bus driver. Kevin did an incredible job navigating the roads in the Alps. The Alps were beyond spectacular.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There are so many wow moments on this tour, but probably hiking the North Face trail near Murren was our favorite of all. The green pastures and incredible views of the mountains were stunning. We love the Lauterbrunnen area ! Have to also say the Lemm Hotel in Castelrotto in the Dolomites was quite the place between the beautiful hotel and it's views along with incredible meals! "
Michelle
Tour: 09/04/23
Overall rating:
Loved the itinerary to through all of the Alps! Our guide, Kathleen, was kind and attentive. She made sure everyone had their daily plans and gave everyone great options and suggestions. Our bus driver, Kevin, was excellent. Really enjoyed our fellow travelers. This was our first Rick Steve's tour and it went very well.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Lauterbrunnen Valley! The hotel view of the Staubbach Falls was incredible!"
Patricia
Tour: 09/04/23
Overall rating:
This My Way Alpine Tour was our first experience with any kind of organized tour. It was a great experience overall - having the transportation, hotels, and a great tour manager made the experience seamless.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My favorite "WOW" moment came in Lauterbrunnen and being there when they brought the cows down from the mountain! I have always wanted to see that and was SO excited it happened to coincide with our visit to that beautiful place! "
Bella
Tour: 09/04/23
Overall rating:
This was our first My Way tour and it worked perfect with this itinerary. It met all expectations
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Zugspitze definitely comes to mind but every place we went had breathtaking wow moments and the hikes were awesome "
Shelly
Tour: 09/04/23
Overall rating:
Our tour guide was outstanding. She knew the areas well and helped give us ideas, even sitting down one on one with each couple to make their experience better. The hotels were varied in style, comfort and location and we loved that. Sometimes you were in a city and other times you were a little off the beaten path. It was a fabulous experience from start to finish.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Pulling up in Castelrotto Italy and falling in love with the town and seeing the Dolomites in the background. It seemed like a fairytale. "
Steve
Tour: 09/04/23
Overall rating:
The trip schedule and places we visited were wonderful and the transportation and accommodations were also top notch. Our guide Kathleen was truly outstanding- very friendly and knowledgeable who went out of her way to make us feel comfortable and included. This was especially appreciated by me as a single traveler.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Staying in the beautiful and spacious hotel in Castelrotto and the spectacular Three Witches hike above town. "
Rob
Tour: 08/28/23
Overall rating:
This was our first Rick Steve's tour and it could not have been any better.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The whole trip was a wow moment. Each stop was as good or better than the previous. We especially loved the stop in Innsbruck and Lucerne for lunch. They both were a special treat. Chamonix was wonderful."
Laura
Tour: 08/28/23
Overall rating:
This is our second My Way tour and it meets our traveling needs very well with transportation and hotels. Timing was great since crowds were less than expected. Trip manager, Brian was helpful and kept things on schedule.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Lauterbrunnen Valley and the surrounding peaks are amazing. We covered both sides of the valley with amazing hike at the base of the mountains. The Dolomites and hiking the Alpe di Siusi are also an amazing experience."
Barbara
Tour: 08/28/23
Overall rating:
This tour was just what we had hoped for. Tour guide, bus driver, hotels and travel group were all great. A wonderful experience!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The views from the mountains were incredible."
Steven
Tour: 08/28/23
Overall rating:
We had a great tour group with a very pleasant and organized tour manager. We were very well informed about what to anticipate during travel days and given great orientations upon reaching each new destination. The scenery, as anticipated was gorgeous throughout the entire trip. The timing and pace throughout were good although if I had the choice I would have opted for another day in the Dolomites.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"During an evening hike as time approached the 'golden hour' we encountered a herd of bell-wearing Swiss dairy cows in a serene pasture on the trail between Grutschalp and Murren. The Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau served as a stunning backdrop. It was both an audible and visual experience we will never forget. "
Carla
Tour: 08/28/23
Overall rating:
The tour exceeded all expectations. Great hiking opportunities (our top priority), wonderful sights, a tour manager who successfully guided us through the sometimes-complicated logistics of getting where we wanted to go and doing what we wanted to do. Most important — we had fun.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Relaxing with tour mates and new friends over a Black Monk beer in Gimmelwald, with Jungfrau smack in our faces, after a long, rich, rewarding day of hiking to a cowbell soundtrack — the Mountain View and North Face trails, followed by the walk down from Murren to Gimmelwald."
Dani
Tour: 08/28/23
Overall rating:
The tour was well led by Brian with constant offers to help and prompt responses to questions.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Italian Dolomites. "
Mary Anne
Tour: 08/21/23
Overall rating:
This was my first tour of any kind and I was extremely pleased! Our tour manager, Kathleen was a wonderful resource who took the time to advise, guide and point us in the right direction with all aspects of our My Way tour. The itinerary was well planned and proved to give us a wonderful Alps experience.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The food in Chamonix, the carefree pace and attitude in Balzano, the creaky chalet with skeleton keys in Lauterbrunnen couldn't have been more charming and the caliber of fellow travelers was the best."
David
Tour: 08/21/23
Overall rating:
The sites were incredibly beautiful and the guide and bus driver did a good job.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The beautiful scenery in the Dolomites"
David
Tour: 08/21/23
Overall rating:
The trip was very good, but we unfortunately had rain and snow our entire stay in the Lauterbrunnen Valley. We were also notified, just prior to the start of our tour of a hotel change from Chamonix to Saint Gervais which limited our options for dining and time in the city.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Our favorite wow moment was the Aiguille du Midi to Mont Blanc and the cable car to Point Helbronner, Italy. We were on one of the first lifts and experience early morning clear skies. It was magnificent!"
Craig
Tour: 08/21/23
Overall rating:
Loved the people in our tour group and our guide was very good. Extremely disappointed in the location and selection of the hotels. Hotels were either too far away from the destination hikes or issues with the hotel (a/c, wifi, etc…).
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Dolomites "
Jill
Tour: 08/21/23
Overall rating:
I had been eyeing this tour for a while & finally decided I wasn’t getting younger so it was now or never. I loved everything about it, I’d say it even exceeded my expectations. The only not great part was the weather in Lautenbrunner, it rained for the whole time, but the waterfalls were spectacular! We still walked around in the rain. I’m going to have to go back!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"We rented e-bikes in Alpe di Suisi and rode around the valley, stopping @ huts for refreshments & getting lost!"
John
Tour: 08/21/23
Overall rating:
Thanks to a great group (good luck) and a fantastic My Way guide (credit to the organization), we had a terrific trip despite bad weather (bad luck)!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Aiguille du Midi exceeded our expectations: we love to look at mountains more than we like to be on them. But this was an otherworldly experience that we're glad was saved until the end of the tour. Right up there with ballooning in Turkey: we'll never forget it."
Michael
Tour: 08/21/23
Overall rating:
The itinerary was fantastic, and our host was a true professional
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Seen the Alps from the vantage point of the Alpe to Suisi"
Bobbie
Tour: 07/24/23
Overall rating:
This tour took the hard part of travel out of our hands ( travel between places and finding accommodations) and left us with all the fun. Our tour manager, Axel, was perfect in helping us make plans and orienting us to each area so that we could make the most of our time in each location. When we had to pivot for any reason (weather, unexpected distances, closures) we found surprises that we didn’t know we would love. Bus driver, Jan, was a boss behind the wheel. Just wow!!! High recommendation!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"For my husband it was the views from the Shilthorn, and for me it was a tie between Seceda and Alpe de Suisi in the Dolomites and all the hiking in the Lauterbrunnen area. Those mountains are indescribable. "
Kathleen
Tour: 07/24/23
Overall rating:
I had just enough autonomy and just enough connection during the trip. I hope RS will come up with more of these trips! It was perfect for my travel style!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Schilthorn Piz Gloria took my breath away. We had excellent weather and fantastic visibility. Not so in Chamonix, so we were thankful to have taken the ascent. "
Kenneth
Tour: 07/24/23
Overall rating:
Great tour, great guide, fantastic scenery, good food
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Seeing the storied north face of the Eiger from Kleine Scheidegg. "
Silvina
Tour: 07/24/23
Overall rating:
Overall rating:rating 5 of 5 What a great itinerary and perfectly located hotels. It was my seventh RS's tour, but the first My Way.This was one of our favorite trips. Our manager, Axel, was incredible!The guidebook ,as always ,was extremely helpful . Axel was a fantastic tour facilitator who guided and reviewed our plans and ensured they were reasonable.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"There were many "wow" moments. One of them, had to be the view from our balcony overlooking the Lauterbrunnen Valley - something right out of a storybook. The fireworks on National Day were unbelievable. Another one that took my breath away was reaching the Alpe di Tires in the Dolomites. Everyday had moments that will remain with me forever."
Mary
Tour: 07/19/23
Overall rating:
Ruth Ann, our manager, was outstanding. We had a lot of confidence in Yost, our bus driver. Even though on the “my way” tour you mainly do things on your own the people with us greatest enhanced our total experience. Frank and I are in our late seventies and the “my way” tour was perfect for us. We were able to do short hikes and many excursions we wanted to do. The hotels and the breakfasts were very good. We will be recommending this tour to our friends.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The view from our balcony in Wengen was spectacular. But our Wow moment was walking on the “witches trail” (Dolomites) and seeing the outstanding views."
James
Tour: 07/19/23
Overall rating:
The experience was great. Everyone on the tour was cordial and friendly, at first getting to remember everyone's name was a challenge, but eventually you get it. The weather was iffy throughout the tour, but we all took it in stride and made the best of it. The bus transportation was top notch(kudos to Jos our driver) and the hotels were great(best I ever stayed in).
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Two favorite "wow" have to be taking the cable car to the top of Zugspitze and the trip up Aiguille du Midi."
Lisa
Tour: 07/19/23
Overall rating:
The tour itinerary included wonderful locations and most of the accommodations were terrific. Our tour guide was helpful and knowledgable. The bus was clean and comfortable.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The view from our hotel balcony in Wengen was spectacular, as was paragliding in the Lauterbrunnen valley."
Lois
Tour: 07/19/23
Overall rating:
It was such a wonderfully planned trip, beginning with the low Alps of Salzburg, the beautiful high meadows in Italy, then the dramatically beauty of Lauterbrunnen and Chamonix. Ruth Anne was excellent as our guide, friendly and knowledgeable. We loved the food, culture,cool mountain air and amazing scenery.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"I skied in the Lauterbrunnen valley 50 years ago. Its beauty is eternally astounding. "
Kelly
Tour: 07/19/23
Overall rating:
I had a really nice trip. I liked being able to decide what I was going to do each day. Ruth Ann was a great resource for planning the day. I'd been to a few places before so it was fun to revisit and experience new things
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking. Period. The weather was forecasted for high percentage of rain just about every day. There was only a few days of intermittent rain or fog, otherwise beautiful. "
Rosemary
Tour: 07/17/23
Overall rating:
Brian, our shepherd, made every step of the journey easy and memorable. We had a fantastic group of friendly individuals who couldn't have been nicer or more friendly. The views were beautiful and the hikes a real treat. Brian made several stops along the way that we not on the itinerary and this added to the experience. Rick's book was spot on an continued to enhance my extended stay in Chamonix and Annecy. Also want to extend kudos to our more than capable bus driver Wim.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Mountains in Dolomites and Aiguille de midi "
Michael
Tour: 07/17/23
Overall rating:
The Alpine "My Way" tour was exactly what we wanted. Having all of the transportation & accommodations taken care of for us was a nice relief and left us more time to plan our daily excursions. If there is a bit of room for improvement, I'd like to see you have an option or tour which adds an additional day to the "2 day" stops at Salzburg, Bolzano, Fussen and Chamonix (yes, make it a 16 day tour!). It did feel a bit rushed from time to time and a bit more "breathing" space would be great.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking the Alpe di Siusi in the Dolomites was breathtaking and Bolzano is a definite hidden gem. The entire tour was full of memorable experiences, and the flexibility on the "My Way" tour allowed more individual freedom."
Norma
Tour: 07/17/23
Overall rating:
This was a fabulous tour and my first RS tour. I loved every place we stayed. I was traveling with a friend, my daughter and son-in-law so the My Way tour was perfect with everyone getting to choose what they wanted to do each day. Our tour manager, Brian, was the absolute best! He made the experience much richer with his knowledge, expertise and assistance. I wish RS could provide more My Way Tours!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Lots of “wow” moments! My favorite was riding e-bikes around Lake Forggensee in Fussen, Germany. Unbelievable views of mountains, castles, German farmland and quaint little towns along the way. Plus a polka band playing at an outdoor cafe!"
Rebecca
Tour: 07/10/23
Overall rating:
We've traveled with a Rick Steve's tour before, and we loved the My Way tour even more. It was the perfect blend of a RS tour and traveling independently. We didn't have to worry about transportation or where to stay, and Ruby our guide was very helpful with tips to help us plan our day. She even helped us navigate unexpected dental work in France! This was our first time traveling with our son (8yo), and it was an amazing trip. Less stress and we could plan activities that were best for him.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking in the Swiss Alps was amazing. The views on the Panorama Trail from Mannlichen to Kleine Scheidegg were unlike any other, and you didn't have to do a strenuous hike to get to the views. I also loved just pausing to listen to the chorus of cowbells all around us."
Peggy
Tour: 07/10/23
Overall rating:
July 2023 My Way Alpine Tour. Excellent experience overall. Although we have used Rick Steve's books for many years, this was our first formal RS tour. Our tour manager, Ruby was A+, delightful and helpful. The itinerary was well paced. Overall, the hotels were well located and provided many options for daily activities.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"My favorite "wow" moment was in Chamonix France. My husband and brother-in-law went paragliding. Seeing them gliding past Mont Blanc and all the gorgeous snow covered mountains is something I will never forget."
Kathleen
Tour: 07/05/23
Overall rating:
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Wengon"
Susan
Tour: 07/05/23
Overall rating:
This was a well-organized and fascinating trip through several countries. As a "my way" tour we chose the activities we wanted from many suggestions. We met a great group of fellow travelers and our guide was knowledgeable and helpful.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Seeing the castles in the mountains and waterfalls everywhere."
Kathy
Tour: 07/05/23
Overall rating:
Amazing! Trip of a lifetime! We would take this again!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The “wow” moments were too numerous to count, but if I suddenly disappeared of my own accord and you wanted to find me, I would suggest you start looking in Wengen, Switzerland. If I wasn’t to be found there, Chamonix would be a smart second place to look. Both places are Shangri-la-esque! "
Linda
Tour: 07/05/23
Overall rating:
Ruth was very knowledgeable about the places we visited-everything from great places to eat, hike, and visit to traditions and fun facts. The cities and towns on the tour were perfect. There were so many great places to hike and interesting places to visit.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking in the Alps in the different countries-the breathtaking beauty of the mountains will remain imprinted in my memory. "
Marilyn
Tour: 07/05/23
Overall rating:
This "My Way" tour was perfect for us. We could choose what activities we wanted to do based on our interest, energy level, and the weather. Our fellow travelers were fantastic as was our tour manager, Ruth Ann. There was a good balance between time on the road and time at the destinations. The hotels were very nice and centrally located. The scenery surpassed our wildest dreams!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The view of the Jungfrau from our balcony at the Hotel Regina in Wengen...stunning!"
Rebecca
Tour: 07/05/23
Overall rating:
Very positive experience. This was my first ever tour with a group. I have travelled extensively, but always planned my own itinerary.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The Dolomites in Italy. I loved the small town of Castelrotto, the hotel, the views, and the activities we chose (Secada Ridge hike)."
Katelin
Tour: 07/03/23
Overall rating:
We had an amazing time filling our time with all things related to mountains and small towns. Laurel was a tremendous resource as tour manager giving recommendations that helped us maximize our time.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Hiking in the Dolimites and in Switzerland is unlike anything we have done before."
Paul
Tour: 07/03/23
Overall rating:
The alpine my way was exciting seeing the different mountains. Bus driver great. Tour guide was informative.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The ice caves we went through. Saw some climbers go out on the mountain."
Eric
Tour: 06/28/23
Overall rating:
Great exposure to natural wonders
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Scenery of the mountains rising above us "
Paula
Tour: 06/28/23
Overall rating:
This was our first experience with a MY WAY Tour and it was so much more than we expected! The countries we visited and the things we got to experience were a dream come true - and our Guide had a lot to do with that!
Favorite "WOW" moment
"It had to be the view from our balcony overlooking the Lauterbrunnen Valley - something right out of a storybook. We still cant believe it's real when we look at the pictures we took."
Paul
Tour: 06/26/23
Overall rating:
The tour was amazing, and moved along at a great pace. Our Tour Manager, Brian, was a helpful, approachable, and knowledgeable resource.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"The views at the Alpe di Siusi were incredible!"
Lowell
Tour: 06/26/23
Overall rating:
Seemed the focus was on quantity over quantity
Favorite "WOW" moment
"Suspension bridge"
Scott
Tour: 06/26/23
Overall rating:
This was our first tour with Rick Steves. We chose the "My Way" option, as we are accustomed to travelling on our own in Europe. This trip was of particular interest to us, as it seemed to be a difficult region to reach by public transportation. Everything went well ... the itinerary was great, hotels were perfectly located and our guide was excellent.
Favorite "WOW" moment
"We took the gondola at Mont Blanc from France to Italy and were awe struck."
When To Go & Weather
Any time from late May through September is a good time to take an Alpine Europe vacation. However, the months of May, June, September, and early October offer fewer crowds and mild weather (with occasional snow). July and August have the best weather, snow-free alpine trails, long days, and the biggest crowds. No matter when you go, know that the weather in the Alps can change suddenly.
Austria / Vienna
Germany / Munich
Italy / Milan
Switzerland / Bern
Hotels & Flights
Tour Hotels
In case you wish to book pre- or post-tour hotel accommodations, the contact information for the tour's first and last hotels is included in your tour confirmation email, as well as in the Itinerary section of your tour account. One month prior to the tour departure, you'll find the directions to your first tour hotel and a complete list of hotels where we'll be staying in the Documents section of your tour account.
Flights
Our tours don't include airfare, so your flight arrangements are completely up to you.
Most tour members arrange to fly into Salzburg (SZG) and out of Geneva (GVA) — choose "multicity" on flight-booking websites. Munich and Vienna are alternatives with easy train connections to Salzburg, and the Geneva airport is a two-hour bus ride from Chamonix, where the tour ends. Booking round-trip to one city will require a connecting flight, train trip, or additional overnight stay in Europe.
We suggest arriving a day or two before your tour begins to allow ample time to get over jet lag and be well-rested for the first few days of your tour. For more information about transportation options for getting to and from your tour, see your Rick Steves Alpine Europe tour guidebook.