Huémoz, Switzerland 25-Day Trip Itinerary

Depart Sydney

Begin your journey to Europe with a flight from Sydney International Airport (SYD) to Geneva (GVA).

Ensure you arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure for international flights. Stay hydrated and try to get some rest during the flight.

Arrive in Geneva

Land at Geneva Airport (GVA).

After clearing customs and immigration, proceed to the train station located directly within the airport.

Exchange some currency to Swiss Francs (CHF) if needed, or withdraw from an ATM. Purchase a Swiss SIM card if you plan to use local data.

Transfer to L'abri, Huémoz

Take a train from Geneva Airport to Aigle or Ollon, then a local bus or taxi to Huémoz.

Enjoy the scenic Swiss countryside as you make your way to L'abri.

Settle into L'abri

Check in, settle into your accommodation at L'abri, and enjoy an evening meal with the community.

Take some time to unpack and relax after your long journey. Familiarize yourself with the L'abri facilities and schedule.

Orientation & Welcome

Participate in an orientation session for new arrivals, understanding the rhythm and ethos of L'abri.

This is a great opportunity to meet fellow students and staff and understand the daily routines and opportunities available.

Morning Study/Lecture

Engage in the morning study schedule, which may include lectures, discussions, or personal study time.

L'abri provides a unique environment for intellectual and spiritual reflection. Make the most of the resources and quiet spaces.

Community Lunch

Enjoy lunch with the L'abri community, a time for fellowship and informal discussion.

Afternoon Alpine Walk

Take a gentle walk around the picturesque village of Huémoz and its surrounding alpine trails, enjoying the fresh mountain air and stunning views.

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain. The views of the Rhone Valley are breathtaking.

Evening Fellowship

Join the evening program, which often includes readings, prayer, or discussions, followed by an opportunity for casual conversation.

Quiet Time & Reflection

Start the day with personal quiet time, reflection, or prayer, taking advantage of the peaceful environment.

Small Group Discussion

Participate in a smaller, focused group discussion on a particular topic, fostering deeper engagement and conversation.

Community Lunch

Enjoy another communal lunch, sharing stories and insights with others at L'abri.

Visit Aigle Castle

Take a short trip to Aigle to visit its impressive medieval castle, which houses a museum on vines and wine.

Evening Presentation

Attend an evening presentation or lecture by a resident scholar or guest speaker.

Personal Study or Reading

Dedicate the morning to personal study, reading, or working on any assignments or reflections.

Community Lunch

Enjoy a final communal lunch for this segment of your L'abri stay.

Panoramic Viewpoint Hike

Embark on a hike to a local panoramic viewpoint near Huémoz, offering stunning vistas of the Swiss Alps and the Rhone Valley.

Ask L'abri staff for recommendations on accessible trails with the best views. Bring water and a camera.

Leisure & Personal Time

Spend the evening at your leisure, perhaps engaging in a casual conversation, reading, or preparing for your transition out of L'abri.

Travel to Geneva

Depart from Huémoz (via Villars-sur-Ollon or Aigle) and take a train to Geneva.

Enjoy the scenic Swiss countryside as you make your way to the city.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Check into your hotel in Geneva and settle in.

Grab a quick lunch at a local cafe near your accommodation.

Look for a hotel near public transport for easy access to attractions.

Jet d'Eau & Lake Geneva Stroll

Visit Geneva's iconic Jet d'Eau, a massive water jet fountain.

Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Geneva, enjoying the views.

The Jet d'Eau operates most days, weather permitting. It's a great spot for photos.

L'horloge Fleurie (Flower Clock)

Admire the famous Flower Clock in the English Garden, a symbol of Geneva's watchmaking heritage and horticultural prowess.

Dinner in Old Town

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Geneva's charming Old Town, offering traditional Swiss or international cuisine.

Try local specialties like 'filets de perche' (perch fillets) from the lake.

UN Office at Geneva (Palais des Nations)

Take a guided tour of the Palais des Nations, the European headquarters of the United Nations, and learn about its vital international work.

Tours are often available in multiple languages. Bring identification for security checks. Check for booking requirements in advance.

International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum

Explore the engaging exhibits at the Red Cross Museum, offering insights into humanitarian action throughout history.

Lunch in Pâquis Quarter

Enjoy a casual lunch in the vibrant Pâquis quarter, known for its diverse culinary scene.

Explore Geneva's Old Town

Wander through the picturesque cobblestone streets of Geneva's Vieille Ville (Old Town), discovering hidden passages and historical buildings.

St. Pierre Cathedral

Visit St.

Pierre Cathedral, a prominent landmark in the Old Town. Climb the towers for panoramic views of Geneva and the lake.

Evening Dinner & Relaxation

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a restaurant of your choice, reflecting on your Swiss experiences.

High-Speed Train to Paris

Take a direct TGV Lyria high-speed train from Geneva Cornavin station to Paris Gare de Lyon.

This scenic journey offers comfort and efficiency.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch in Paris

Arrive at Paris Gare de Lyon, transfer to your hotel, check in, and find a local Parisian bistro for a delicious French lunch.

Consider a hotel near a metro station for easy access to all attractions.

Eiffel Tower Experience

Visit the iconic Eiffel Tower.

Pre-book your tickets online to ascend to the top (or second floor) for breathtaking panoramic views of Paris.

Booking well in advance (several weeks) is highly recommended, especially for summit access. Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking.

Seine River Cruise

Take an evening cruise along the Seine River to see Paris's landmarks illuminated at night, including Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower.

Many companies offer cruises. Consider one with an open-air deck for best views.

Dinner with a View

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the 7th arrondissement or near the Seine, capping off your first day in Paris.

Louvre Museum

Immerse yourself in art and history at the world-famous Louvre Museum.

Focus on key collections like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Egyptian antiquities.

Purchase timed entry tickets online in advance to avoid long queues. The museum is vast; consider a specific itinerary or an audio guide.

Lunch near Palais Royal

Enjoy lunch at a cafe or restaurant near the Palais Royal, close to the Louvre.

Tuileries Garden Stroll

Walk through the beautiful Tuileries Garden, linking the Louvre to the Place de la Concorde, a perfect Parisian green space.

Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe

Stroll down the grand Avenue des Champs-Élysées, doing some window shopping before reaching the majestic Arc de Triomphe. Consider ascending the Arc for another panoramic view.

Ascending the Arc de Triomphe offers excellent views, especially of the 12 avenues radiating from it. Book tickets online.

Evening Dinner in a Parisian Quarter

Discover a restaurant in a lively Parisian quarter like Le Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés for your evening meal.

Île de la Cité & Notre Dame

Start your day on Île de la Cité, visiting the exterior of Notre Dame Cathedral to admire its Gothic architecture and ongoing restoration.

Explore the island's charming streets.

The area around Notre Dame is still under renovation, but you can appreciate its grandeur from outside.

Sainte-Chapelle

Visit Sainte-Chapelle, a magnificent royal chapel renowned for its stunning stained-glass windows.

Lunch in Latin Quarter

Cross over to the Left Bank and enjoy a vibrant lunch in the bustling Latin Quarter, known for its student atmosphere and diverse eateries.

The Panthéon

Visit the impressive Panthéon, originally a church, now a mausoleum containing the remains of distinguished French citizens.

Luxembourg Gardens Relaxation

Spend a relaxing afternoon in the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens, watching locals play pétanque or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance.

Farewell Paris Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Paris, perhaps experiencing a traditional French brasserie or trying a cuisine you haven't yet sampled.

Musée d'Orsay

Explore the magnificent Musée d'Orsay, housed in a former railway station, home to a vast collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces by artists like Monet, Degas, Renoir, Cézanne, and Van Gogh.

Book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, especially on a Thursday. Closed on Mondays.

Lunch in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Enjoy a classic French lunch in the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, known for its literary history and lively atmosphere.

Many brasseries and cafes offer lunch specials.

Eiffel Tower Evening Visit

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Paris from the iconic Eiffel Tower, particularly magical as the city lights up.

Consider taking the elevator to the summit for the full experience.

Pre-book your tickets online well in advance, especially for evening slots, to guarantee entry and skip queues. The tower sparkles on the hour for five minutes after sunset.

Explore Île de la Cité

Wander through the historic Île de la Cité, the heart of Paris.

See the exterior of Notre Dame Cathedral (under reconstruction), visit Sainte-Chapelle with its stunning stained glass windows, and explore the Conciergerie.

Sainte-Chapelle requires separate timed-entry tickets, book ahead. Notre Dame can only be viewed from the exterior for now.

Latin Quarter Exploration & Lunch

Cross over to the Left Bank and immerse yourself in the vibrant intellectual atmosphere of the Latin Quarter.

Explore its narrow streets, bookshops, and enjoy lunch at a traditional bistro.

Visit Shakespeare and Company bookstore or relax at the Jardin du Luxembourg nearby.

Seine River Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing one-hour cruise along the Seine River, offering unique perspectives of Paris's iconic landmarks, including the Louvre, Notre Dame, and Eiffel Tower.

Several companies offer cruises. Tickets can often be purchased on the spot or online.

Morning in Paris

Enjoy a final French breakfast, do some last-minute souvenir shopping, or simply relax before heading to the train station.

High-Speed Train to Amsterdam

Take the efficient Thalys high-speed train from Paris Gare du Nord to Amsterdam Centraal Station, enjoying the European countryside scenery.

Book your train tickets several weeks in advance for the best prices. Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure.

Hotel Check-in & Settle

Check into your hotel in Amsterdam and get settled before an evening out.

Evening Canal Walk & Dinner

Take a leisurely stroll along Amsterdam's picturesque canals, admiring the unique gabled houses.

Enjoy dinner at a canal-side restaurant.

The Jordaan district is excellent for atmospheric walks and dining options.

Rijksmuseum Visit

Immerse yourself in Dutch art and history at the Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces by Rembrandt (The Night Watch), Vermeer, and other Dutch Masters.

Book timed-entry tickets online in advance to guarantee entry and skip queues. Avoid peak midday crowds if possible.

Lunch near Museumplein

Enjoy lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants around Museumplein, the cultural heart of Amsterdam.

Options range from quick bites to more formal dining.

Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Experience Amsterdam from the water with a scenic canal cruise.

Glide past historic merchant houses, charming bridges, and vibrant houseboats.

This cruise offers a great overview of the city. Departures are frequent.

Explore Jordaan & Dinner

Spend your evening exploring the charming Jordaan district, known for its narrow streets, independent boutiques, art galleries, and traditional 'brown cafes'. Enjoy a delightful dinner.

Van Gogh Museum

Visit the world-renowned Van Gogh Museum, home to the largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh, including 'Sunflowers' and 'The Potato Eaters'.

Timed-entry tickets are mandatory and sell out quickly. Book several weeks in advance to secure your preferred slot.

Anne Frank House

Visit the poignant Anne Frank House, the actual hiding place where Anne Frank wrote her diary during World War II.

A powerful and moving experience.

Tickets are released online exactly two months in advance and sell out within minutes. Book the moment they become available. No tickets are sold at the door.

Bloemenmarkt (Flower Market)

Stroll through the world's only floating flower market, the Bloemenmarkt.

Browse the colorful stalls offering tulips, bulbs, souvenirs, and plants.

A great place for unique souvenirs. It's located on the Singel canal.

Evening Leisure & Dinner

Enjoy a relaxed evening in Amsterdam, perhaps trying out a local restaurant or visiting a cozy bar.

Train to The Hague

Take a comfortable intercity train from Amsterdam Centraal to The Hague Centraal.

This journey is quick and offers a glimpse of the Dutch landscape.

Hotel Check-in & Settle In

Check into your accommodation in The Hague, drop off your luggage, and refresh before starting your exploration.

Look for hotels near the city center or public transport hubs for convenience.

Mauritshuis Art Museum

Visit the renowned Mauritshuis, home to iconic Dutch Golden Age paintings, including Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' and Rembrandt's 'The Anatomy Lesson of Dr.

Nicolaes Tulp'.

Book your tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slot and avoid queues.

Lunch in Hofkwartier

Enjoy a casual lunch in the charming Hofkwartier (Court Quarter), known for its boutique shops and cozy cafes, just a short walk from Mauritshuis.

Peace Palace Exterior View

Walk to the iconic Peace Palace, the seat of international law.

While interior tours often require advance booking, admire its grand architecture and serene gardens from the outside.

Check for available tours if you wish to see the interior (often booked far in advance).

Dinner in City Centre

Savor Dutch or international cuisine at a restaurant in The Hague's vibrant city center.

Binnenhof & Ridderzaal

Explore the Binnenhof, the historical government complex and seat of the Dutch Parliament.

Take a guided tour to learn about Dutch democracy and see the impressive Knight's Hall (Ridderzaal).

Tours are often available through ProDemos. Book ahead online, especially for tours in English.

Escher in Het Paleis

Visit 'Escher in Het Paleis', a permanent exhibition dedicated to the works of the Dutch graphic artist M.

C. Escher, housed in the former Winter Palace of Queen Emma.

Lunch near Lange Voorhout

Enjoy lunch at a café or restaurant around the beautiful tree-lined Lange Voorhout avenue.

Scheveningen Beach & Pier

Take a tram to Scheveningen, The Hague's famous seaside resort.

Stroll along the beach, walk the iconic pier, and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.

Dinner by the Sea

Dine at one of the many restaurants or beach clubs along the Scheveningen boulevard, enjoying fresh seafood with a view of the North Sea.

Flight to Berlin

Travel from The Hague to Berlin.

Take a train to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), then fly to Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER). This is the fastest way to cover the distance.

Hotel Check-in in Berlin

Arrive at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), take public transport (S-Bahn or regional train) to your hotel, and check in.

Settle in before exploring the city.

Berlin's public transport system is excellent for reaching hotels from BER (approx. 30-45 min).

Brandenburg Gate

Begin your Berlin exploration at the iconic Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of peace and unity.

Take photos and absorb the historical significance of this landmark.

Reichstag Building Exterior

Walk to the Reichstag Building, the seat of the German Parliament.

Admire its impressive architecture and glass dome. (Note: Dome visits require advance booking).

If you wish to visit the dome, book well in advance (weeks, even months).

Dinner in Mitte

Enjoy dinner in the central Mitte district, offering a wide array of international and German restaurants.

Museum Island Exploration

Spend your morning on Museum Island (Museumsinsel), a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Choose to visit the Pergamon Museum (if open) or the Neues Museum (Egyptian Art and Nefertiti Bust).

Pre-book tickets for specific museums. Pergamon Museum often has ongoing renovations; check ahead.

Lunch near Museum Island

Grab a quick lunch at a cafe or restaurant in the vicinity of Museum Island or Hackescher Markt.

East Side Gallery

Visit the East Side Gallery, the longest open-air gallery in the world, featuring murals painted directly on a remaining section of the Berlin Wall.

Best experienced by walking the length of the gallery. Easily accessible by S-Bahn/U-Bahn.

Checkpoint Charlie

Explore Checkpoint Charlie, the former border crossing between East and West Berlin.

See the replica guardhouse and read about its dramatic history.

Consider visiting the nearby Mauermuseum (Checkpoint Charlie Museum) for deeper insights (extra cost).

Dinner in Kreuzberg

Discover the vibrant and multicultural Kreuzberg district for dinner, known for its diverse culinary scene and lively atmosphere.

Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe

Visit the poignant Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, an undulating field of concrete stelae designed by Peter Eisenman.

Take time for quiet reflection.

The underground information center provides additional context (small fee).

Stroll Through Tiergarten

Walk through Tiergarten, Berlin's largest and most beautiful park, perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Pass by the Victory Column (Siegessäule).

Lunch near Tiergarten

Enjoy a casual lunch at a cafe or restaurant close to the park.

Charlottenburg Palace

Visit Charlottenburg Palace, Berlin's largest and most magnificent palace.

Explore the historical rooms, opulent interiors, and the beautiful Baroque gardens.

Consider purchasing a combined ticket for the palace and gardens. Easily reachable by public transport.

Dinner in Prenzlauer Berg

Experience the charming Prenzlauer Berg district for your final dinner in Berlin, known for its elegant streets, trendy restaurants, and cozy bars.

Travel from Berlin to Munich

Board a high-speed train from Berlin to Munich.

Enjoy the scenic German countryside during your comfortable journey.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Check into your hotel in Munich and have a quick lunch near the city center.

Marienplatz & Glockenspiel

Explore Marienplatz, the central square, and watch the famous Glockenspiel performance at the New Town Hall.

The Glockenspiel performs at 11:00, 12:00, and 17:00 (March to October). Ensure you catch one of the afternoon shows.

Visit Frauenkirche

Discover the iconic twin-domed Frauenkirche, Munich's Cathedral of Our Lady, and enjoy panoramic views from its tower (seasonal).

Climbing the south tower offers stunning city views. Check opening times for the tower access.

Dinner at Hofbräuhaus

Experience a traditional Bavarian evening at the world-famous Hofbräuhaus, complete with local food, beer, and live music.

Try a Weißwurst (white sausage) or Schweinebraten (roast pork) with a traditional Bavarian beer.

Nymphenburg Palace & Gardens

Visit the stunning Nymphenburg Palace, the former summer residence of Bavarian rulers.

Explore its lavish interiors and expansive Baroque gardens.

Consider visiting the 'King's Bedchamber' and the 'Gallery of Beauties'. Gardens are free to explore.

Lunch near Nymphenburg

Enjoy lunch at a local cafe or restaurant in the Nymphenburg area.

Stroll through English Garden

Relax and wander through the vast English Garden, one of the world's largest urban parks.

Watch surfers on the Eisbach wave.

Don't miss the Monopteros temple for city views and the Chinese Tower beer garden for a refreshment.

BMW Welt (Optional)

If interested in automotive design, visit BMW Welt, an exhibition of BMW's current models and design philosophy.

Entry to BMW Welt is free. The BMW Museum (next door) has an entrance fee.

Dinner at Local Restaurant

Enjoy a final dinner in Munich at a charming local restaurant, trying another Bavarian specialty.

Hotel Checkout in Munich

Check out from your Munich hotel.

Train to Vienna, Austria

Travel by comfortable train from Munich Hauptbahnhof to Vienna Hauptbahnhof, enjoying the journey through picturesque landscapes.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch in Vienna

Arrive in Vienna, check into your hotel, and grab a quick lunch.

St. Stephen's Cathedral

Explore the magnificent St.

Stephen's Cathedral, Vienna's most important religious building. Climb the South Tower for panoramic city views.

Entry to the cathedral nave is free, but there are fees to climb the towers or visit the catacombs.

Stroll Graben & Kohlmarkt

Wander through Graben and Kohlmarkt, two of Vienna's most elegant shopping streets, admiring the architecture and atmosphere.

Traditional Viennese Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Viennese dinner, perhaps trying Wiener Schnitzel or Tafelspitz.

Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens

Explore the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, the former imperial summer residence.

Tour the opulent rooms and stroll through the vast Baroque gardens, including the Gloriette.

Purchase a 'Classic Pass' to see the palace, Gloriette terrace, and maze for a comprehensive experience.

Lunch near Schönbrunn

Have lunch at one of the cafes or restaurants located near Schönbrunn Palace.

Hofburg Palace Complex

Discover the Hofburg Palace, the former imperial palace and current official residence of the President of Austria.

Visit the Imperial Apartments, Sisi Museum, and Silver Collection.

Evening Classical Concert (Optional)

Immerse yourself in Vienna's musical heritage with an evening classical concert, featuring works by Mozart and Strauss.

Book tickets in advance, especially for popular venues. Dress code is typically smart casual.

Belvedere Palace

Visit the stunning Belvedere Palace, home to Gustav Klimt's 'The Kiss' and other Austrian masterpieces.

Focus on the Upper Belvedere for the main art collection.

Lunch & Explore Naschmarkt

Enjoy a diverse lunch at Naschmarkt, Vienna's most popular market, offering a mix of international and local foods, spices, and treats.

Great for trying different cuisines and grabbing some unique souvenirs.

Last Minute Souvenir Shopping

Take some time for last-minute souvenir shopping in Vienna's city center.

Departure Preparation

Return to your hotel to collect luggage, check out, and prepare for your onward journey.