Switzerland 2024/2025: Grand Train Tour

Flight to Zurich

Our Swiss adventure commences with a seamless passport and baggage check-in process, followed by an onward flight to Zurich.

Nestled amidst Alpine summits, this city boasts breathtaking vistas, promising an enchanting experience for discerning travelers.

Zurich

Upon our arrival in Zurich, we will proceed to our designated hotel for check-in. Following a brief period of relaxation, our itinerary includes a captivating exploration of the city.

A guided walk through the historic Old Town will showcase prominent landmarks, including the City Hall, the expansive Rathausbrücke Bridge—formerly a bustling market square—and the venerable 15th-century Cathedral. Enthusiasts will have the opportunity to ascend the cathedral tower for an elevated perspective.

Transitioning to the contemporary facet of Zurich, our itinerary features a leisurely stroll down Bahnhofstrasse, renowned as the “most expensive” street. Lined with prestigious banks, financial institutions, and luxury boutiques, this iconic avenue offers a glimpse into Zurich’s sophisticated urban ambiance. The day concludes with a restful overnight stay in Zurich.

Trummelbach Falls

Following a nourishing breakfast, we will commence a three-hour journey to the charming town of Interlaken. Our itinerary encompasses a picturesque ascent to the Jungfraujoch summit via a cogwheel train.

We will traverse captivating landscapes aboard trains connecting Lauterbrunnen and Kleine Scheidegg, subsequently transferring to a cogwheel train for an ascent to the world’s highest railway station. At the pinnacle, the Sphinx Observatory awaits, featuring observation decks and refined dining establishments, providing an unparalleled panoramic vista of the Swiss Alps.

Our exploration for the day extends to the Trummelbach Falls, distinguished as Europe’s largest subterranean waterfalls. Navigating through intricately carved rock tunnels and utilizing a glass elevator, we will marvel at the majesty of these falls. Following this day of remarkable experiences, we will return to Interlaken for a restful overnight stay.

Lavaux

Following a hearty breakfast, our journey takes us towards Montreux, a scenic 3-hour drive, to explore the renowned Lavaux region, celebrated as the viticultural heart of the country. The panoramic landscapes of the terraced vineyards have merited their inclusion on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage list.

Commencing from the town of Vevey, our itinerary features the “Wine Train” experience, a captivating excursion intertwined with tastings of exceptional local wines and cheeses. Upon our return to Montreux, a captivating cruise on Lake Geneva awaits, providing a serene and picturesque conclusion to the day.

We will settle in for the night in Montreux, anticipating more enriching experiences in this charming locale.

Zermatt

Following  breakfast, our journey continues to Zermatt, a picturesque 2.5-hour drive away. Nestled amidst towering four-thousanders, Zermatt is surrounded by glaciers flowing into the valleys.

The focal point of our visit is the renowned Matterhorn, Switzerland’s most iconic peak. After settling into our accommodations, we will venture to the station where the cogwheel train departs for the Gornergrat ridge.

Upon completion of our Gornergrat experience, we will return to Zermatt, offering the choice of either a scenic train ride or a leisurely walk. Opting for the latter provides the opportunity to immerse ourselves in panoramic vistas of the glacier and Riffelsee Lake, reflecting the majestic Matterhorn.

The night will be spent in the charming town of Zermatt.

Transfer to St. Moritz

Today, after an eight-hour drive, we will head to St. Moritz. Along the way, we will pass numerous viaducts and tunnels, with our route enriched by stunning mountain landscapes.

We will traverse the impressive Landwasser Viaduct, measuring 136 meters in length and 65 meters in height. Upon arrival in St. Moritz, we will check in, take a leisurely stroll, enjoy dinner, and settle in for the night.

Sankt Moritz

Today is dedicated to exploring the renowned resort of St. Moritz, celebrated worldwide for its cosmopolitan ambiance. Nestled on the sunny southern slope, this exclusive destination provides sweeping views of the Engadine Valley and the majestic Alps.

Our itinerary includes a cable car journey to Corviglia, followed by an ascent via a funicular and an aerial cableway to the panoramic vantage point of Piz Nair. Beyond the breathtaking summit views, indulge in local culinary delights at the mountaintop restaurant.

Upon returning to St. Moritz, leisure time is allocated for a relaxing stroll and shopping. The evening will be spent in the sophisticated surroundings of St. Moritz, ensuring a tranquil and luxurious overnight experience.

Lugano

After breakfast, we will embark on a journey to Lugano (a 6.5-hour drive), a Swiss city known for its lush greenery and extraordinary landscapes.

We will leisurely stroll along the promenade overlooking the emerald waters of Lake Lugano. Following this, we will explore the Old Town, featuring a unique funicular that ascends 200 meters uphill, enhancing the ease of exploring the city on foot.

Free time will be allotted for perusing shops and visiting numerous cafes and restaurants. Switzerland proves to be a paradise for shopping enthusiasts. The night will be spent in Lugano.

Pilatus

Following breakfast, we embark on a 5.5-hour journey to Lucerne – a city celebrated for its captivating architecture. Our exploration will include iconic landmarks such as the historic wooden bridges, notably the Chapel Bridge inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, and the avant-garde KKL Cultural and Congress Centre.

A cogwheel train will transport us to the summit of Lucerne, where we will reside for dinner and the night. Enthusiasts may partake in the available short hiking trails leading to elevated vantage points.

Post-sunset, an extraordinary opportunity for stargazing at an elevation of 3000 meters unfolds. Our overnight accommodation awaits at Pilatus.

Rheinfall

In the morning, we will return to Lucerne before embarking on a journey towards St. Gallen, a 2.5-hour drive. Should our schedule allow, we plan for a brief stopover in St. Gallen.

Continuing our route, we will proceed to Schaffhausen on the Rhine, a 2-hour drive, where the railway tracks offer a scenic route along the shores of Lake Constance. Upon arrival and check-in, an engaging excursion awaits us to visit Rheinfall, Europe’s largest waterfall, conveniently located approximately an hour’s walk from the center of Schaffhausen.

If time permits, participants will have the option to enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Constance. The evening will conclude with an overnight stay in Schaffhausen.

Zurich

Today’s itinerary takes us to Lindenhof, the oldest and most picturesque district of the city, positioned atop a hill, providing a sweeping panoramic view of Zurich.

Exploration is enhanced by the pedestrian-only environment, as Lindenhof is entirely free from vehicular traffic. Leisure time can be enjoyed by the shores of Lake Zurich or amidst the various shops and cafes in the vicinity.

Our overnight accommodation awaits us in Zurich.

Departure from Zurich

Switzerland 2024: Grand Train Tour