13 Day Italy, Switzerland, Austria & Slovenia
From
$3939
Land Only
$5259*
Air & Land
Featured Hotels
| Saturday Departure | ||
|---|---|---|
| NH Lecco Pontevecchio | Lecco | |
| Grand Europe Hotel | Lucerne | |
| Grauer Baer Hotel | Innsbruck | |
| AC Hotel by Marriott Innsbruck | Innsbruck | |
| ARCOTEL Castellani Salzburg | Salzburg | |
| Radisson Blu Hotel & Conference Centre Salzburg | Salzburg | |
| Hotel Imlauer & Brau Salzburg | Salzburg | |
| Imperial Riding School, Autograph Collection | Vienna | |
| Occidental Ljubljana | Ljubljana | |
Not Included:
Optional tours and gratuities (unless otherwise specified).
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.
Accommodation Details:
Occidental Ljubljana will accommodate a triple in a single room & twin room.
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page. Also consult our Health page for information on vaccines and documentation required for entry.
Is This Trip Right for You?
Escorted Package Includes
- Flights New York-Milan, Ljubljana-New York
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - 11 nights accommodations
- 2 nights Lecco
- 2 nights Lucerne
- 1 night Innsbruck
- 2 nights Salzburg
- 2 nights Vienna
- 2 nights Ljubljana
- Hotel taxes, fees, service charges and Italian city taxes
- Hotel porterage
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure datesâ€
- 17 meals: 11 breakfasts, 6 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Services of local guides
- Entrance fees per itinerary
- Tips for porters, wait staff & local guides on included services
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring
Special Features
- A scenic cruise on spectacular Lake Como takes you to the exquisite village of Bellagio
- Admire the 14th century medieval Chapel Bridge, forming the centerpiece of Lucerne's townscape
- Travel via the scenic Vorarlberg Mountains and Austria's Tyrolean Alps to pristine Innsbruck
- Tour Salzburg, celebrated as Mozart's birthplace and setting of The Sound of Music
- In Vienna, visit the impressive Schonbrunn Palace, summer residence of the Habsburg emperors
- Discover the medieval Old Town of Graz and learn about its history
- Embark on a city tour of Ljubljana, capital of Slovenia, and admire its beautiful architecture
- Visit Bled Castle, an imposing medieval fortress, perched atop a steep cliff above the picturesque lake
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates if pre/post accommodations are booked through Gate 1 Travel
Not Included:
Optional tours and gratuities (unless otherwise specified).
Is This Trip Right for You?
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Gate 1 Travel itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.
This first class hotel is situated in a prestigious location just a 5 minute drive from the city center.
Hotel Details
This superior first class hotel is located in the heart of the city near to many attractions.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is located just outside the city center in a picturesque garden setting.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is located in the city of Vienna, within walking distance of Belvedere Palace.
Hotel Details
- Tours purchased in destination may cost 10% or more.
- Reserve early - tours often sell out.
- Travel insurance only covers pre-departure purchases.
- Book online or by phone up to 1 week before departure, unless otherwise noted.
- Tour operating days vary by departure date.
Ascend the world's steepest cogwheel railway which winds up through lush meadows carpeted with Alpine flowers, past sparkling mountain streams and fascinating rock faces to Mt. Pilatus. After admiring splendid views of the Bernese Oberland and the snowcapped Swiss peaks from the summit at nearly 7000 feet, descend by aerial cableway and return to Lucerne.
Nov-May and in the event of adverse weather, the cogwheel will be replaced by the aerial cable car.
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours. Expect 1 hour of walking as well as considerable time standing.
| Day #5 | 01 Jan 2026 - 31 Dec 2026 | $125.00 |
Excursion into the surrounding countryside of Salzburg to Obersalzberg, once an important mountain retreat for senior Nazi SS officers and top party members. Transfer to special motor coaches adapted for the scenic mountain climb to Hitler's notorious "Eagle's Nest." Ascending with the original elevator to the Kehlsteinhaus, you'll see dramatic views of the snowcapped peaks. Afterwards, relive some of your favorite scenes from the movie "The Sound of Music" with views of various locations, like the gazebo in the gardens of Hellbrunn Palace.
This tour will not operate in Apr, early May and Nov or in the event of inclement weather.br>
Approximate tour duration is 4 hours. Expect 1.5 hours of walking as well as considerable time standing.
| Day #8 | 16 May 2026 - 31 Oct 2026 | $85.00 |
Experience a delightful evening of Viennese culture in the "City of Music." Attend a recital featuring the classical masterpieces of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Johann Strauss, two of Vienna's most famous citizens. The musicians will bring to life the passionate strains of Mozart, a child prodigy who blossomed into one of history's greatest composers and Strauss, the Waltz King, who composed the Blue Danube, the world's most famous waltz.
Approximate tour duration is 2.5 hours. Expect less than 1 hour of walking and limited time standing.
| Day #10 | 20 Mar 2026 - 31 Dec 2026 | $90.00 |
| Know Before You Go | |
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. or Canadian citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies for US Citizens. For Canadian citizens, passport application are available at Canada Post locations, as well as at Service Canada Centres. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| Please consult with your healthcare provider for up-to-date requirements. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. Any required inoculations must be documented by clients' healthcare provider on a valid vaccination certificate, which must be carried as proof where necessary. Individuals with heart disease, chronic illness, physical handicap, advanced pregnancy, or mental illness should not participate in these rigorous travel programs. While traveling, illnesses can sometimes be unavoidable. If a traveler arrives feeling ill or becomes sick during the tour, they will be separated from the group and directed to either a local or virtual medical facility for diagnosis. This precaution is necessary to ensure the well-being of all travelers. The traveler may only rejoin the group after receiving written clearance from an accredited medical facility confirming they are fit to continue. All costs associated with medical treatment and related expenses such as additional hotel nights or transportation not included in the original itinerary will be the responsibility of the passenger. Travel protection plans will only consider coverage with service receipts provided by legally qualified health care facilities, and in accordance with policy terms. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
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| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| Switzerland - Switzerland tours visit areas of high elevation ranging from 5,905 feet to 10,135 feet. High elevation may cause some passengers to experience the temporary effects of altitude sickness. If you have any concerns about traveling to higher than your accustomed elevation, please consult your healthcare provider. Individuals that are affected by high altitude, should avoid over-exertion, drink extra water, abstain from alcohol, and eat lightly. |
| Trip Preparation |
| A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the US, Canada and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1's #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/reservations with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a "+" sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a "+" instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA/Canada or your US/Canadian cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
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| Climate & Clothing |
| Italy - Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. The months of October through March are considered rainy season in Venice, leading to high tides and occasionally waters reaching pedestrian areas. We suggest including a rain jacket and boots on your packing list. On cruises, informal dress is the general rule though on formal nights, a cocktail dress for women and a suit or coat and tie for men is required. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Italy Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| Austria - Dress in layers so you can adjust to changing weather and transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. For winter travel, bring a warm, weather-resistant coat, hat, gloves, and sturdy, non-slip footwear. In summer, bring a hat and sunscreen. Comfortable walking shoes are essential year-round, along with a lightweight waterproof layer for unexpected weather. Note that some religious sites require modest dress (shoulders and knees covered). Austria Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| Germany - Dress in layers so you can adjust to changing weather and transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. For winter travel, bring a warm, weather-resistant coat, hat, gloves, and sturdy, non-slip footwear. In summer, bring a hat and sunscreen. Comfortable walking shoes are essential year-round, along with a lightweight waterproof layer for unexpected weather. Note that some religious sites require modest dress (shoulders and knees covered). Germany Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| Slovenia - Dress in layers so you can adjust to changing weather and transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. For winter travel, bring a warm, weather-resistant coat, hat, gloves, and sturdy, non-slip footwear. In summer, bring a hat and sunscreen. Comfortable walking shoes are essential year-round, along with a lightweight waterproof layer for unexpected weather. Note that some religious sites require modest dress (shoulders and knees covered). Slovenia Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| Switzerland - Dress in layers so you can adjust to changing weather and transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces. For winter travel, bring a warm, weather-resistant coat, hat, gloves, and sturdy, non-slip footwear. In summer, bring a hat and sunscreen. Comfortable walking shoes are essential year-round, along with a lightweight waterproof layer for unexpected weather. Note that some religious sites require modest dress (shoulders and knees covered). Switzerland Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or "drone" technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| ITALY: Books Venice Is a Fish: A Sensual Guide by Tiziano Scarpa Secrets of Rome: Love and Death in the Eternal City or Secrets of the Vatican by Corrado Augias Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy or In Tuscany by Frances Mayes Caesar: Life of a Colossus by Adrian Keith Goldsworthy Italy for the Gourmet Traveler by Fred Plotkin Medici: Godfathers of the Renaissance by Paul Strathern A Day in the Life of Ancient Rome by Alberto Angela The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi Roma: The Novel of Ancient Rome by Steven Saylor ITALY: Films The Great Beauty (2013) I Am Love (2010) Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) Life is Beautiful (1997) A Room with a View (1985) La Dolce Vita (1960) Three Coins in the Fountain (1954) |
| CENTRAL EUROPE: Books The Eclipse of the Crescent Moon or Slave of the Huns by Géza Gárdonyi A Modern Midas: A Romance by Mór Jókai Fatelessness by Imre Kertész How to be an Alien or How to be Poor by George Mikes Csardas by Diane Pearson Who Loves You Like This by Edith Bruck Darkness at Noon by Arthur Koestler Kasztner's Train by Anna Porter Imprimatur or Secretum or Veritas by Monaldi & Sorti Europe 101: History and Art for the Traveler by Rick Steves and Gene Openshaw The Bridge at Andau by James A. Michener I Served the King of England or Bambini di Praga 1947 by Bohumil Hrabal Franz Kafka and Prague by Harald Salfellner The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera Old Czech Legends by Alois Jirásek The Golem by Gustav Meyrink The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka The Good Soldier Svejk by Jaroslav Hašek |
| SWITZERLAND: Books William Tell by Friedrich Schiller The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann David Wyss Swiss Watching: Inside the Land of Milk & Honey by Diccon Bewes A Tramp Abroad by Mark Twain The Lions of Lucerne by Brad Thor Target Switzerland: Swiss Armed Neutrality in World War II by Stephen P. Halbrook Swiss History in a Nutshell by Gregoire Nappey Scrambles Amongst the Alps by Edward Whymper Why Switzerland? by Jonathan Steinberg SWITZERLAND: Films The Miracle of Bern (2003) The Swissmakers (1978) On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969) Third Man on the Mountain (1959) Heidi (1937) |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows "N/A". Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline "Record Locator" which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62"), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline's requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years' imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate your luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Intra-Flights |
| All intra-flights included in your package are booked in Economy Class. Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches (157 cm) by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62" / 66cm+66cm+25cm = 157cm), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Exceptions are listed below and may differ from international flight luggage limits. More detailed baggage restrictions for your airline can be found at www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. While air conditioning is available in most hotels, we recommend checking the room amenities listed under the "Featured Hotels" tab of your package to confirm. Please note that many international hotels were built before central air conditioning was introduced. In those that do offer air conditioning, usage may be restricted, often due to government regulations aimed at promoting energy conservation. It's typical for air conditioning to be used only during the summer months, to follow a set schedule (sometimes turned off at night), and to operate at lower settings than what many North Americans are accustomed to. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| Rome City Tax - The authorities of Rome apply a city tax on all hotels. The tax requires a contribution of up to Euro 10 per person per night. It will be charged and collected by your hotel and is payable in cash only. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance or include it in your price for customers who are traveling independently or who arrange independent pre- or post-tour stays on an escorted tour. This tax is included in the tour price for customers who are traveling on an escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Manager who can pay directly to the hotel on your behalf. Please note that our hotel ratings may differ from official star ratings which determine the tax level. |
| Milan City Tax - The authorities of Milan apply a city tax on all hotels and certain tour services. The tax requires a contribution of up to 10.00 Euros per person per night. It will be charged and collected by your hotel and is payable in cash only. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance or include it in your price for customers who are traveling independently or who arrange independent pre- or post-tour stays on an escorted tour. This tax is included in the tour price for customers who are traveling on an escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Manager who can pay directly to the hotel on your behalf. Please note that our hotel ratings may differ from official star ratings which determine the tax level. |
| Como City Tax - The authorities of Como apply a city tax on all hotels. The tax requires a contribution of up to Euro 5.00 per person per night. Children under 14 are exempt from this charge. It will be charged and collected by your hotel and is payable in cash only. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance or include it in your price for customers who are traveling independently or who arrange independent pre- or post-tour stays on an escorted tour. This tax is included in the tour price for customers who are traveling on an escorted tour accompanied by a Tour Manager who can pay directly to the hotel on your behalf. Please note that our hotel ratings may differ from official star ratings which determine the tax level. |
| At Your Destination |
| Staggered Arrival & Departure |
| Many tours are offered with multiple duration options, allowing travelers to choose one or more destinations in a single trip. As a result, the number of participants on your tour may vary, as we accommodate travelers arriving and departing at different points in the itinerary. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Papal Audiences, Vatican City - Italy |
| General audiences with His Holiness the Pope are usually held once a week (Wednesdays at 11 a.m.) in Vatican City. They may be held inside the Basilica itself or in the hall of the Papal Audiences (Aula Paolo VI, Seating 7000), and in summer in Saint Peter's Square or in the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo. Please note that Castel Gandolfo is located approximately 20 miles south-east of Rome, not in Vatican City. Catholics are requested to have a letter of introduction from their parish priest. For this audience women should dress modestly, with arms and head covered. Dress should be dark or subdued in color. Men are requested to wear a tie and jacket. |
| New Venice Visitor Tax Regulation - It was recently announced that the city of Venice will be implementing an entrance tax of 10 Euros per person for tourists visiting the city for the day. In most cases, the tax will be included in the cost of the transportation to access the city center, including cruise, taxi, or public transportation. However, there may be instances where visitors will need to pay the tax upon arrival. We regret that we are currently unable to collect this tax in advance. Due to the uncertainty of this new regulation the information above is subject to change. |
| Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) |
| Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| Purchasing Tours Locally |
| On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| Italy - The Euro is the currency of Italy. Italian bank opening hours are typically Monday through Friday, 9am to 1pm depending on the bank. Most Italian banks do not offer exchange service. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to acquire a small amount of Euros prior to arriving. ATM machines are a better option. |
| Austria - The Euro is the currency of Austria. |
| Germany - The Euro is the currency of Germany. |
| Slovenia - The Euro is the currency of Slovenia. |
| Switzerland - The Swiss Franc is the currency of Switzerland. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store's policies. While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country's online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Italy - Shops are generally open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., with some variations in Northern Italy, where the lunch break is shorter and shops close earlier. In the major cities, large stores and souvenir shops remain open throughout the day. Italy is renowned for its fashion industry, with fine clothes for men and women, lacework, jewelry, and leather accessories. Other quality goods include ceramics, gold and silver items, alabaster, woodwork, embroidery, glass and crystal ware. Major credit cards are usually accepted, though cash is preferred for small purchases. |
| Austria - Austria is renowned for its high quality winter sports equipment, wine, as well as an assortment of top-of-the-line, handcrafted items, including crystal, wood carvings, textiles, and fine leather. If you are traveling during the Christmas season, the Christmas markets are a must-see, not only for the goods but also for the hot mulled wine and unforgettable atmosphere. |
| Germany - In addition to large department stores featuring a wide range of goods, Germany has many specialized shops that feature high quality items such as optical instruments, knives, glassware, china, handcrafted toys, and antique books and maps, among many others. |
| Slovenia - Local specialties include bobbin lace, crystal, glassware, and wine. Business hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. A value-added tax is now added to the purchase price of most goods. |
| Switzerland - Shopping in Switzerland offers a great chance to find the highest quality watches and knives, extravagant jewelry, and gourmet Swiss chocolates. Especially famous for cuckoo clocks, ranging from the simplest models to the most extraordinarily intricate, Swiss craftsmanship is unsurpassed. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
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Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
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| Caution: Tours of the Forum & Colosseum, Rome - Please note that there have been reports of street vendors wearing Gate 1 Travel identification tags who offer tours of the Colosseum in Rome. These vendors are not employed by Gate 1 and are in no way affiliated with the company. Gate 1 tours are offered only for purchase in advance of your trip to Italy, or locally by your Tour Manager. Passengers traveling independently are recommended to purchase their tours through official vendors and to avoid street sales. |
| Security at Major Sites - Please expect longer wait times at major sightseeing locations due to heightened security restrictions. These locations include, but are not limited to, the San Marco Basilica in Venice, the Accademia in Florence, and the Colosseum & Vatican in Rome. Bags of any kind are no longer allowed inside the San Marco Basilica and large bags/backpacks are restricted from the Colosseum. We suggest you to carry only necessary items (i.e. wallet, cell phone, camera) safely on your body and leave all other valuables in the hotel room safe when visiting these sites. |
| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Italy
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Austria
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Germany
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Slovenia
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Switzerland
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| Languages |
| Italy - Italian is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Austria - German is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Germany - German is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Slovenia - Slovene is the local language. Croatian, Serbian, German, English, and Italian are also spoken by some. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Italy - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Austria - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Germany - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Slovenia - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Switzerland - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Italy - Family and social ties are, broadly speaking, stronger in Italy than in other Western European countries, and the Roman Catholic church retains a strong cultural influence. Common courtesies should be practiced. Casual dress is appropriate, but beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Conservative clothing should be worn when visiting religious buildings, meaning legs and shoulders should be covered. While the cities are very safe, pickpocketing can occur. Avoid conspicuous expensive jewelry and be mindful of your wallet or handbag. Even though many Italians smoke, smoking is prohibited in all public buildings, public transport, cinemas and restaurants. |
| Austria - Shaking hands is a customary greeting and normal courtesies should be observed. First names are not used when being introduced, but after a relationship exists, using first names is appropriate. Politeness is highly valued, and saying hello and goodbye is important even in shops and restaurants. |
| Slovenia - Dress should be casual, but conservative, except at formal dinners and upscale hotels or restaurants. At restaurants, bread will often be brought and charged even if not requested. This is customary and should not be disputed. Slovenes are known for their friendliness and hospitality to foreigners and even new acquaintances may offer a drink. |
| Germany - Shaking hands is a customary greeting and normal courtesies should be observed. First names are not used when being introduced, but after a relationship exists, using first names is appropriate. Politeness is highly valued, and saying hello and goodbye is important even in shops and restaurants. |
| Switzerland - Cleanliness is of utmost importance in Switzerland and even accidental littering can result in a public scolding. Shaking hands is a standard greeting. When being introduced, it is important to shake hands with everyone, including children. Standard courtesies should be observed, and conservative casual dress is appropriate. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
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| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops, restaurants, and some sites may experience very large crowds. |
| Holidays - Italy |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Apr 5: Easter Sunday Apr 6: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Mary / Ferragosto Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Epiphany Mar 28: Easter Sunday Mar 29: Easter Monday Apr 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day Jun 2: Republic Day Aug 15: Assumption of the Virgin Nov 1: All Saints Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include: Parma: Jan 13-14 (St. Hilary of Poitiers), Aug 16-17 (St. Roch) & May 5 (St. Honoratus) Catania: Feb 3-5; Aug 17 (St. Agatha) Sorrento: Feb 14 (St. Antoninus) Agrigento: Feb 25 (St. Gerland) & Jun 18 (St. Calogerus) Como: Apr 2; Aug 31 (St. Abbondio) Ragusa: Apr 23 (St. George) Venice: Apr 25 (St. Mark) & Nov 11 (St. Martin's Day) Treviso: Apr 27 (St. Liberalis) & Mar 27; Aug 1; Aug 22 (St. Augusta) Baveno: Jun 19 (Sts. Gervasius & Protasius) Matera: Jun 20 (St. John) & Jul 2 (St. Madonna della Bruna) Florence, Genoa & Turin: Jun 24 (St John the Baptist) Amalfi: Jun 27; Nov 30 (St. Andrew) Rome: Jun 29 (St. Peter & Paul) Siena: Jul 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace Taormina: Jul 8-9 (St. Pancras) Palermo: Jul 15 (St. Rosalia) Santa Margherita Ligure: July 20 (St. Margaret of Antiochia) Lecce: Aug 26 (St. Orontius) Naples: Sep 19 (St. Gennaro) Bologna: Oct 4 (St. Petronius) Trieste: Nov 3 (St. Giusto) Montecatini: Dec 4 (St. Barbara) Bari: Dec 6, May 7-9 (St. Nicholas) Milan & Stresa: Dec 7 (St. Ambrose) Siracusa: Dec 13 (St. Lucy) |
| Holidays - Austria |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Apr 3: Good Friday Apr 5: Easter Apr 6: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 14: Ascension Day May 24: Whit Sunday May 25: Whit Monday Jun 4: Corpus Christi Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Oct 26: National Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 26: Good Friday Mar 28: Easter Mar 29: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 6: Ascension Day May 16: Whit Sunday May 27: Corpus Christi Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Oct 10: Plebiscite Day Oct 26: National Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 15: St. Leopold's Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Germany |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Apr 3: Good Friday Apr 5: Easter Apr 6: Easter Monday May 1: May Day May 14: Ascension Day May 24: Whit Sunday May 25: Whit Monday Jun 4: Corpus Christi Aug 15: Assumption Day Oct 3: Day of German Unity Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 18: Repentence Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 26: Good Friday Mar 28: Easter Mar 29: Easter Monday May 1: May Day May 6: Ascension Day May 16: Whit Sunday May 17: Whit Monday May 27: Corpus Christi Aug 15: Assumption Day Oct 3: Day of German Unity Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 17: Repentence Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Slovenia |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: New Year Holiday Feb 8: Prešeren Day Apr 5: Easter Sunday Apr 6: Easter Monday Apr 27: Day of Uprising Against Occupation May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 2: Labor Day Holiday May 24: Whit Sunday Aug 15: Assumption of Mary Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Independence and Unity Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2027 Jan 1-2: New Year's Day, observed Feb 8: Prešeren Day Mar 28: Easter Sunday Mar 29: Easter Monday Apr 27: Day of Uprising Against Occupation May 1-2: Labor Day/May Day, observed Jun 8: Whit Sunday Aug 15: Assumption of Mary Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: Remembrance Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Independence and Unity Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Switzerland |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: St. Berchtold Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 19: St. Joseph's Day Apr 3: Good Friday Apr 5: Easter Apr 6: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 14: Ascension Day May 24: Pentecost (Whit Sunday) May 25: Pentecost (Whit Monday) Jun 4: Corpus Christi Jun 29: St. Peter and St Paul Aug 1: Swiss National Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: Restoration Day Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: St. Berchtold Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 19: St. Joseph's Day Mar 26: Good Friday Mar 28: Easter Mar 29: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day/May Day May 6: Ascension Day May 16: Pentecost (Whit Sunday) May 17: Pentecost (Whit Monday) May 27: Corpus Christi Jun 29: St. Peter and St Paul Aug 1: Swiss National Day Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Nov 1: All Saints' Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: Restoration Day |
| Suggested Tipping |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always at your personal discretion. For your convenience, please refer to the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or in the U.S. dollar equivalent where accepted, and we recommend keeping small bills on hand for tipping. Please note that in many destinations, tipping is considered a customary part of local compensation. While you may occasionally be approached for additional tips, you should never feel pressured to do so. If at any time you feel uncomfortable or uncertain about a situation, please speak with your Tour Manager or contact our office using the 24/7 phone numbers provided in your travel documents. |
| Suggested Tipping: Escorted Tours |
Suggested amounts are based on each passenger, regardless of age. Tour Manager: US $10 per person per day Driver: US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Note: Tips for local guides, hotel porters, wait staff, and any other services listed in your itinerary are included, unless otherwise specified above. Drivers provide chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage, and on some itineraries, you may encounter multiple drivers. |
| Italy - For activities on your own, gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. 5-10% is customary for good service. |
| Austria - For activities on your own, gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Germany - For activities on your own, gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Slovenia - For activities on your own, gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Switzerland - For activities on your own, rounding up the bill is appreciated. Taxi drivers do not expect a gratuity and rounding up the fare is usually sufficient. |
I just returned from my 8-Day Enchanting Italy trip with my son. This was our 3rd trip with Gate 1 and I cannot tell you how much we've enjoyed each one of them. The structure of the trips not only eliminates almost all the stress in traveling, but the knowledge gathered along the way from your magnificent guides, tour managers and bus drivers is immeasurable. Our tour guide (Franco), our bus driver (Gianluca) and the many local guides brought so much joy and knowledge to our vacation that I simply can't say enough about them. We are so grateful that you obviously take such great care in acquiring these wonderful people. Thank you so much for yet another unforgettable trip with Gate 1!
Robert M.
We enjoyed very much our Classic Central Europe tour with Gate 1. It was well organized and covered the main attractions in Budapest, Vienna, Bratislava and Prague, while allowing us the flexibility to either join the optional tours or explore the cities ourselves. The local guides were very knowledgeable about their respective cities and provided a lot of interesting facts about their areas. The driver was also very helpful and safely took us to the various stops with no issues. Above all, the overall tour guide - Neyra - was fantastic. She provided us with exceptional service, with excellent attention to details, proactive approach by thinking ahead of our needs and managing the tour in a very organized manner, genuine concern for our welfare, friendly treatment of guests, humor, and extensive knowledge of the places we visited. Neyra really made our third tour with Gate 1 truly memorable. She has so far been the best overall tour guide we have ever dealt with.
Jaime Y.
This was our first trip with Gate1 and I'm so glad we booked it. Our Tour Manager, Marta, was amazing! She shared so much history about Poland, even some of her family history. Her love for Poland was really evident. She made and passed out handouts of the Polish National Anthem, get familiar with Polish Currency & Stores, Polish Flavors, Polish Phrases, and Recommended Movies and Books. She also gave us samples of candies and drinks; we had a Q.&A. game. She gave us recommendations for our free time and safety tips. Andre our driver was wonderful! We were very impressed with his driving skills, we always felt safe. Gdansk was my favorite city. We loved the location of our hotel and the city guide, (Anna/Anya).I am beyond happy that we made this trip. I feel in love with Poland and her people. I felt well cared for and that we got a quality tour. Thank you Gate1.
Debra K.
Katarina, our Tour Manager and Eric, the bus driver were absolutely wonderful! They were pleasant, funny, fun to be with and very informative and very accommodating....They are the bar we have set for our future trips with Gate 1 for sure! David and Renner, our local guides were fun, had great information and little tidbits that made each tour interesting and memorable! I loved every minute of all of it....these folks were the cherry on top!!! A huge thank you to all of them for making my 'bucket list' trip worth the wait!
Judy M.
My trip was wonderful. We had an excellent guide: YOLANTA was fabulous. Love her tone of voice, her sense of humor, excellent command of the English language, very organized. She made the long drives very informative also during those long drives she would have some local goodies to distribute (chocolate candy and more). She had a very nice way to make the group integrate and have fun. I was with my 16 Yrs. old granddaughter and she also enjoyed all the activities, admired castles, churches, parks and every place we toured. For sure my granddaughter will be back with Gate One. (This was her second time. Her first experience was when she was 12 Yrs old). I cannot leave out to thank CONRAD, our friendly driver, a gentleman who drove us safely throughout many countries.
Clara P.
An unforgettable 4-country journey through Central Europe! Every destination-Poland, Hungary, Austria, and the Czech Republic-with side trip to Bratislava was magical. Our tour manager Matt was exceptional, ensuring our safety and comfort every step of the way. Combined with our professional and steady tour driver Martin, the logistics were flawless. Five stars!"
Maria H.
We have been on many Gate 1 trips and have enjoyed each one of them. But we have just finished our Poland trip and wish to especially contact you with the highest praise for our guide, Joanna. She was so knowledgeable, organized, always welcoming and available. She kindly offered snacks of candy, gingerbread, etc. and prepared a picnic for us. We had 2 birthdays and she organized celebratory treats for each one ( with permission from the spouses). We lived our trip and it was made even more special because of Joanna. She also expressed gratitude to Gate 1 for all they do to provide excellent trips and she is grateful to work for them. Our bus driver was also excellent and much appreciated! Our group was large, but everyone appreciated Joanna and we all were grateful for this wonderful trip. Thank you.
Sandra M.
Sonia was our tour coordinator, and I wanted to specifically call out how wonderful she was. She made our vacation easy, fun, and relaxed from start to finish. She was incredibly knowledgeable and added so much value to our experience. I would highly recommend her to anyone planning a trip!
Sharon A.
I had an excellent trip. I was very impressed by the tour Manager Damian and the driver Piotr. They both did an excellent job. I think Damian is the best tour manager I have ever met and I have travelled with a variety of touring companies.
May T.
We had a great trip! We enjoyed our travels through the small German, Swiss and Austrian towns. Our guide, Soma was excellent.
Lamar S.
A special thank you to our tour guide, Micheal, for making our vacation so enjoyable. He was kind, knowledgeable, and always made sure everyone felt comfortable and safe. His warm personality brought our entire group together, making the trip even more memorable. We truly appreciated his care, professionalism, and positive attitude. Thank you, Micheal, for an unforgettable experience!
Anu K.
Just a brief note to acknowledge Michael, the Tour Manager, on our recent Gate 1 Central Europe tour. He was outstanding in every way that matters to a family on vacation. He was extremely knowledgeable, provided information and context concerning all the places we visited, ensured our comfort and safety, and was kind, personable, approachable, and good-humored throughout our ten days together. Although we travel specifically to visit unique countries on the tour, the tour manager has an impact on our enjoyment of each locale. Michael added immeasurably to our enjoyment and memory of each city/country on the tour, and he is a tribute to Gate 1. His professionalism reflects well on the company. This was our fourth Gate 1 international trip, and we will travel again with Gate 1.
Michael M.
This was our first time traveling with Gate1. Everything right from booking the travel (with Vicky), all the travel arrangements, hotels, food, transportation, tour manager (Katarina), coach driver (Tom) - was absolutely great! Katarina arranged daily schedules flawlessly and we were able to cover everything we'd planned for and some more. I can't wait to book my next trip with Gate1. Thank you!
Aditi D.
My Family and I recently returned from the 11-day Enchanted Italy tour, and it was truly an unforgettable experience! We visited amazing destinations including Pisa, Pompeii, Florence, Sorrento, Assisi, Rome, Venice, and Capri. Each place was unique and gave us a deeper appreciation for Italy's incredible history, culture, food, and traditions. Our tour manager, Mercedes, was incredible! She was knowledgeable, kind, patient, and always willing to help. She taught us Italian signs and phrases, which made the experience even more special and helped us feel more connected to the culture. Mercedes truly knows Italy and went above and beyond to make sure everyone felt comfortable and welcomed throughout the entire journey. Gate 1 Travel did an excellent job organizing the trip. The food was wonderful, the itinerary was well planned, and they were very accommodating and accessible. They also made the travel days comfortable by providing regular restroom stops and plenty of breaks along the way, which made a big difference during our bus rides. A special thank you to Miguel, our wonderful driver, during our time in Florence and Rome. He did an excellent job keeping us safe and comfortable while traveling, and he even entertained us as a DJ one night, creating even more fun memories for our group. Traveling with families, friends, and new friends made this adventure even more enjoyable. We absolutely loved Italy, and Gate 1 Travel helped make this trip a memory we will always treasure. If you can visit Italy, I highly recommend traveling with Gate 1 Travel and especially recommend having Mercedes as your tour manager. She made an already amazing trip truly unforgettable
Keyur P.
Exceptional experience. Organization, great local guides, our group was fantastic and unforgettable memories. Everything can do it with our great Tour Manager Christopher. Thanks!!
Mario Q.
Our tour manager Christopher was absolutely excellent. He was kind, caring, friendly, humorous, and helpful. Christopher was also very reliable and was there for us every step of the way. It was interesting to learn about the life of an expat (him) living in Rome and his take on daily living. Christopher helped our group to be cohesive and to help one another. Everyone had a fantastic trip. Our bus driver Francesco was also really, really good at what he does. I liked how he always helped us off the bus.
Lisa N.
We just returned from our 13 day trip to Lake Como, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia. It was a fabulous trip! This is the 5th Gate 1 trip we've taken. We had the BEST Tour Manager ever in GABI. What an absolute gem - she was incredibly helpful with everything and took great care of us!!! Of the five trips we've taken with Gate 1 - Gabi is by far the best tour manager we've had. Also, our bus driver, Andrea, was wonderful as well! We love Gate 1 and look forward to future trips with you!
Laura M.
Gabi, our tour director was just the best tour director ever. She is so knowledgeable about the different countries. She tells wonderful stories on the bus and she's just a very caring and kind person. My bag was lost for a week and she really helped with the communication to authorities in customs and the airlines to get my bag finally delivered to the hotel. Gate One packed in even more activities and countries than the itinerary in the brochure. Lichtenstein was a surprise. The whole trip was wonderful. We even had perfect weather-in between heat waves.
Mary J.
This was my 14th Gate 1 trip, and reminded me all over again why I keep coming back to Gate 1 Travel. My mother is Bulgarian and I have wanted to see this region all my life. I'm so glad that when I finally went it was on a fabulous, packed itinerary that allowed us to see and enjoy as much of the countries as we possibly could in the time we had. All the hotels were comfortable and well-located, most of them situated in their respective city centers, and all very walkable. The coach was comfortable and the driver Adrian was prompt and competent. The history, culture, and vibrancy of all three countries really shone through the well-crafted and immersive itinerary. The local guides were all knowledgeable and engaging, and Matthew at Bran Castle was a real standout. Almost everyone in the tour group enthusiastically agreed that he was the best local guide of the trip, with many people saying he was the best they've ever experienced. And where do I even begin about Sherban? He's everything a tour manager should be and so much more. I hope Gate 1 realizes what an asset this man is. He is truly a master of his craft. This was the largest Gate 1 tour group I've ever had, yet he kept things running smoothly, punctually, and harmoniously. He was incredibly knowledgeable about all the different regions we visited, and presented that knowledge in a way that was interesting, humorous, and relatable. He made everyone feel individually seen and heard, even in a group of 42 travelers. I am left eagerly anticipating my next Gate 1 trip in a few months, and can confidently say that I intend to be a Gate 1 traveler for life.
Kyra A.
The tour manager Kayo and driver Conrad are excellent, very friendly - helpful - well experienced. They put Client Satisfaction and Safety on top of everything else. Our family of 4 enjoyed the tour very much, it was beyond expectation. We'll come back to Gate 1 for more good time.
Binh N.
The trip was wonderful. Our tour manager, the driver, and all the local tour guides we met along the way were fantastic, not to mention our fellow travelers. Overall it was a great experience and I highly recommend it. This was my very first experience with Gate1 and surely it won't be the last.
Faranak G.
We just returned from our first Gate 1 trip, and we cannot thank you enough for such a wonderful experience. Our tour manager, Georgia, was incredibly responsible, attentive, and caring. She managed the entire trip seamlessly while going above and beyond to accommodate everyone's needs. The smooth coordination among transportation, excursions, and different destinations saved us so much time and allowed us to enjoy a full itinerary filled with delightful surprises. We will definitely travel with Gate 1 again and enthusiastically recommend Gate 1 to our friends. Thank you again for an unforgettable trip!
Jing F.
We just got back from our first trip with Gate 1, and our tour manager, Sergio, made it an experience we will never forget. He was exceptional! Since it was our first time using Gate 1, we didn't fully know what to expect, but Sergio made the whole experience unforgettable. He was so informative, not just about Italy's history and culture, but about so many extra little things along the way. Sergio had a way of turning every single moment into something fun. We truly couldn't have asked for a better guide to introduce us to Italy.
Albert M.
What a wonderful taste of a beautiful and historic part of Europe. We toured the 3 magnificent cities of Prague, Bratislava and Budapest. Each has its own story and charm. Martina, our tour manager, was very knowledgeable and kind. She kept our group at a great pace and her clever sense of humor kept the group laughing. This is a great tour for getting an insight into a part of the world that will make you want to come back for more. Thank you Gate1.
Michael P.
Our Tour Guide, Ana, couldn't have been better! She was knowledgeable, informative, friendly and had a great sense of humor. She made what was a wonderful vacation a perfect one! Many thanks to her!!
Donna A.
The trip was fantastic. Everything went well and we had a great time. Our tour guide, Giampiero, was great. He was knowledgeable, funny, and paid attention to every detail. We cannot say enough good things about him. Thank you for helping us set up a family trip of a lifetime.
Michael C.
Our trip exceeded our expectations! Our tour guide, Marc, was amazing, as well as our driver, Tibor. The tour was perfectly paced with guided sightseeing and independent travel
Christine M.
This tour should be called Breathtaking Switzerland. Each stop seemed more beautiful than the last. We covered a lot of ground but at a comfortable pace. Our guide, Siobhan, was organized, knowledgeable and very kind. Bruno, our driver, expertly navigated the winding mountainous roads with ease. This was our first time visiting Switzerland but hopefully not our last. Thank you Gate1.
Michael P.
This trip was truly one of a kind. Flavia poured her love and passion for Sicily into every aspect of the tour, creating a unique and thoughtfully curated experience that I will always remember. We traveled throughout Sicily, exploring its incredible food, rich history, and vibrant culture, while discovering how the island's past and present blend together to shape modern-day Sicily. Our bus driver, Giuseppe, was excellent. His bus handling skills left us in awe. Sicily, Flavia, and Gate 1 will always hold a special place in my heart.
Bob B.
My trip to Italy was amazing! Everything was so well organized, from the point of arrival through departure. Vivana, our Tour Manager, was great. She was with us from beginning to end and was very knowledgeable and detailed. She went above and beyond. Because of her we will continue to travel with Gate 1.
Iris P.
My trip was fantastico!! Favia was the best tour director I think I have ever had!! She's so caring . So much fun and so involved in the group she's taking care of!! I would love to go on another tour with her no matter where that will be. Thank you Gate 1 for a safe , and satisfactory trip!
Louise C.
Wonderful experience ! Our guide Flavia was beyond great . I loved that she loves Italy as much as I do. She did so many extra things . Treating us to things like pesto focaccia, beautiful map of Italy, recipe for Limoncello, small masks from Venice . I can't say thank you enough for her.
Lynn M.
Thomas is an incredible Tour Manager. I look forward to another trip with him in the future. He's professional, knowledgeable, engaging, thoughtful, and entertaining. The tour itinerary was excellent - a fantastic mix of spectacular scenery, history, art, music, food and fun activities to immerse us in the culture. I enjoyed the more relaxed itinerary in comparison to other tours (though I understood the sometimes-rushed schedules on previous tours to avoid the worst of the crowds, to maximize activities, etc.). It really allowed us to savor the environment like the locals.
Cynthia E.
Excellent trip. We enjoyed the trip very well. The coverage of locations, airport- hotel transfer, hotels were all excellent. Particularly we admire tour manager Justyna for the wonderful task of everything including selecting some of the best restaurants. We would certainly take more Gate1 tours in future.
Raghunath C.
We had an excellent experience traveling with Gate 1 for the first time. Our Tour Manager , Matthias knows his job well, was an effective communicator, able to meet the needs of all traveling in our group. Local tour guides very knowledgeable and professional. Hotels were very nice, and in a great location to city centre areas. Meals provided were exceptional. Nice balance of touring with group, optional tours and independent time on this tour. Would highly recommend Gate 1 for their quality of service provided.
Bernadette W.
We had an amazing vacation in Italy. The accommodations were great, the area tour guides were extremely knowledgeable, and Sergio, our Tour Manager, was exceptional! He was attentive, very knowledgeable about the sites, and just made the trip that much more fun. We will definitely book another trip with Gate
Joseph G.
Fantastic!!! This was our first "Discovery" tour and it was amazing. Alice, our tour manager, was one of the best we've had with Gate1 - being organized, well informed about the sights, professional, respectful, friendly and fun! Giuseppe, our driver was thoughtful, helpful and kept us safe on the road always. It's difficult to recall all the amazing towns, villages and sights as we saw so much in such a short period of time. The fact that this tour concentrated on lesser known sights/towns meant a wonderful surprise awaited us each day. We would highly recommend this trip, especially if Alice and Giuseppe are in charge.
Michael P.
We're in the "travel" business and have been on approximately 60 cruises as our 1st choice to travel. A land tour didn't sound appealing to us until friends talked us into taking a tour of Italy, and they recommended Gate1. The trip was truly fantastic, and we can't wait to go again! So many little things that Gate1 and our tour guide (Sergio) added to our trip that we would've missed if we'd tried to plan it ourselves. In fact, the trip was SO special that we started to fear that we'd simply picked the best one and found the absolute best tour guide, and any future tour wouldn't measure up. We talked to others on the trip with previous experience with Gate 1 and they assured us that we'd love the next tour as well. So...our friends, family, and clients rely on us and our opinions for travel, and they of course asked us what our favorite part of Italy was. What city, what sites, what food, etc., etc.. It was such a difficult question that we really had to think about it. In the end, the answer was obvious. Our favorite part of Italy and the tour, was Sergio, our tour guide. His humor, knowledge, storytelling, and experience truly took our trip to another level. We've been on a thousand excursions with a thousand tour guides. He was simply the best part of our vacation. Whatever he makes as a tour guide, it isn't enough. Give him a raise, please! But...don't promote him to management, it would be a waste of his talent! See you soon for our next adventure...
Edward L.
My wife, Lisa, and I just completed our third trip with Gate 1, and while all three of our experiences have been excellent, this Italy tour stood out as our favorite-and a huge reason for that was our incredible tour manager, Lorena. From Venice to Florence, Rome, Sorrento, the Vatican, Assisi, and Tuscany, Lorena made every moment of the trip enjoyable, memorable, and seamless. She struck the perfect balance of being organized, informative, entertaining, and genuinely caring. Lorena kept us well informed throughout the journey, but she did it with such wit and personality that even logistics became part of the fun. She consistently went the extra mile for everyone in the group and somehow made each person feel known and valued. One of the things that impressed us most was that she learned everyone's names and connected with people personally-it never felt transactional; it felt like traveling with a friend. Her energy, humor, and attention to detail elevated an already wonderful itinerary into something truly special. Italy itself was beautiful, but Lorena brought the experience to life. If we had to rate this trip, it was a 10 out of 10, and Lorena was a major reason why. Thank you, Lorena, for helping create memories that Lisa and I will treasure for years to come.
James G.
I have to tell you that my wife and I had a phenomenal Taste of Tuscan vacation. Carolyn was an amazing guide. From her outstanding knowledge of all the cities we visited, knowing all our names (again amazing), to her knowledge of key restaurants with outstanding food in every city. She was fantastic. Of course, I would be remiss if I didn't also say the other guides were outstanding as well, unfortunately I don't remember their names. Nothing was left to chance, we felt completely secure.
Albert V.
Although I have enjoyed every tour manager I have had previously, I must say that Andrea was the best of all. His warm personality and sense of humor made this trip to Sicily very special. He was organized and attentive to every detail necessary to make things run smoothly. Our group was quite cohesive because of Andrea's calm and helpful manner. His love for his country definitely made us love it as well.
Linda G.
I wanted to express our tour manager Flavia was amazing with a great funny personality who took an interest in each of us! Our personal driver Johnny was excellent as well and made us feel safe! The overall trip was amazing!
Eileen B.
We had a FABULOUS time and could not have been more impressed with Gate 1, and all the special accommodations they provided for the group! Sonja was such an amazing tour manager. We were so impressed with how she managed to keep us all together, help us avoid crowds, and share so much information with a fun and vibrant spirit. It is obvious that Sonja loves Italy and truly loved sharing her country with us! All the guides in the different cities were outstanding. Gate 1 took care of so many little details, from luggage to transportation, to boat tours, to extra special meals and activities, that the average tourist would have missed. On our final morning, I was blown away to find Sonja sitting in the hotel lobby at 4:30 AM, just to make sure we got on our transfer OK, with no problems. And when a Gate 1 person met us at the airport to make sure we didn't have to struggle with anything - well THAT IS JUST EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE!
Lynn J.
Puglia, Italy Gate1 --- Sergio was an excellent tour guide, I think the funniest Gate1 tour guide I've ever had (and I've gone on 21 Gate1 trips). He is a fantastic storyteller, but also is very knowledgeable and pays close attention to get the details right. High quality tour guide! Enjoyed Puglia & Naples very much!
Stuart B.
My family and I recently returned from our first tour in Sicily, and we truly had a wonderful experience, largely because of our exceptional tour manager, Giampiero. From start to finish, he was beyond accommodating, professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in ensuring every guest had the best possible experience! No request was ever too much, and he consistently went above and beyond to make everyone feel comfortable, informed and cared for. His passion in Sicily, attention to detail, and ability to seamlessly manage every aspect of our tour made our trip unforgettable. He transformed what would have been a great vacation into an extraordinary one. He is the reason we will not only remember this trip so fondly, but also confidently travel with Gate 1 again in the future. He deserves special recognition for the outstanding service he provided throughout the entire journey.
Melanie S.