Itinerary Details
Hidden Gems Of Switzerland By Train
Day 1: ARRIVE IN ZURICH, SWITZERLANDYour Small Group Discovery Begins! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)
Day 2: ZURICH–LUCERNEAll aboard! This morning, experience your first adventure on a Swiss train. Hop aboard and leave Zurich behind as you head for charming Lucerne. This afternoon, join an orientation walk to see Lucerne’s highlights. Admire the 14th-century Chapel Bridge that crosses the River Reuss, the iconic Lion Monument, and the charming Altstadt (Old Town) with its quaint streets and painted buildings. Enjoy free time this evening to get better acquainted with this alpine gem. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
See the symbol of Lucerne, the famous Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), the oldest wooden covered bridge in Europe. Originally built in 1365, the bridge includes the Wasserturm (water tower) that once served as a prison. Today, this world-famous timber bridge is Lucerne’s most photographed landmark.
Day 3: LUCERNELeisure by the lake A whole day to do as you please. Explore more on your own and get better acquainted with this picture-perfect town, or join an optional excursion up one of the mighty mountains that surround it. (B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME
What better way to spend this free day than with an excursion to the top of Mt. Pilatus? Ascend via panoramic gondolas and descend via the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, passing exquisite alpine meadows and dramatic rock formations. Take in spectacular views of central Switzerland. Feel on top of the world because you are! Send a yodel across the Swiss peaks in the tradition of mountaineers of old.
Day 4: LUCERNE–LUGANOAlpine Splendor A real treat awaits today! Discover the perfect blend of spectacular scenery and Swiss charm on this unforgettable journey. Begin with a scenic cruise across the pristine waters of Lake Lucerne, passing the striking Schiller Stone and the beautiful Rütli Meadow as you take in the breathtaking alpine views. Reach Flüelen and embark on the Gotthard Panorama Express train for a stunning journey along the historical Gotthard route to reach the elegant lakefront city of Lugano. Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening.(B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME
The Gotthard Panorama Express boat cruises across Lake Lucerne offering a memorable experience amid some of Switzerland’s most spectacular scenery. As the vessel glides across the tranquil waters, enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding alpine peaks while passing iconic landmarks such as the historic Rütli Meadow, regarded as the birthplace of the Swiss Confederation, and the striking Schiller Stone, which commemorates the poet Friedrich Schiller and Switzerland’s legendary story of William Tell. Combining stunning landscapes, rich history, and the intimacy of a shared small-group experience, this scenic cruise is a truly special way to discover the heart of Switzerland.
Day 5: LUGANOSwiss Celebration Take advantage of a day at leisure to explore more of Lugano; admire the buildings, browse the stores in the pedestrian center, try some local specialties, or stroll along the lakeside promenade. Alternatively, join an optional excursion to discover further afield.
ENHANCED FREE TIME
Explore more in Lugano to see its mix of Italian and Swiss style and culture reflected in its architecture and cuisine. Standing on the lake’s northern shore, the city is surrounded by mountain peaks. Lugano’s Piazza della Riforma and pastel palazzos share the ambience of this lovely Swiss city with impressive architecture and bold, innovative street art.
Day 6: LUGANO–ST. MORITZ AREAMountain Magic This morning, join the locals for a scenic coach ride to Tirano, Italy, where you will embark on the world-famous Bernina Express train (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) for one of Europe’s most spectacular and breathtaking train rides. Travel across the lofty Bernina Pass via Poschiavo, witnessing an array of beautiful mountain streams, glaciers, and alpine scenery along the way to the renowned St. Moritz area.
(B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
The Bernina railway line dates back to 1910, however, the famous Bernina Express tourist service was only introduced in 1973 and has since become one of Switzerland's most celebrated rail journeys, carrying passengers through a breathtaking landscape of soaring mountains, sparkling glaciers, deep gorges, and charming Alpine villages.
Day 7: ST. MORITZ AREA–ZURICHSweet Endings This morning, enjoy some free time in glamorous St. Moritz before departing on a scenic rail journey back to Zurich, Switzerland’s vibrant cultural and financial capital. This evening, celebrate your Swiss adventure with your fellow travelers at a special farewell dinner, sharing memories of the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking landscapes enjoyed throughout your journey. (B,D)
ENHANCED FREE TIME
St. Moritz is a world-famous mountain resort nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps. More than just a picturesque holiday destination, it is celebrated as the birthplace of Alpine winter tourism, dating back to 1864, and has proudly hosted the Winter Olympics twice. The town is renowned for its elegant atmosphere, stunning mountain views, and charming chalet-style buildings, many adorned with vibrant geraniums that add to its unique beauty and appeal.
Day 8: ZURICHSafe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
