Switzerland's Scenic Rails

DAYS 1-2: WELCOME TO SWITZERLAND!

Arrive in Switzerland and settle into your hotel. Take time to relax and enjoy the spectacular surroundings before gathering with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. D

DAY 3: GOLDENPASS TRAIN/CHOCOLATE AND CHEESE EXPERIENCE

Start your Swiss adventure as you board the GoldenPass Panoramic Train and enjoy one of Switzerland's most scenic rail journeys. Travel through picturesque countryside, mountain peaks, and charming villages. Later, discover the secrets behind Switzerland's world-famous chocolate during a visit to Maison Cailler, complete with delicious tastings. The day continues in Gruyères with a visit to La Maison du Gruyère. See how authentic Gruyère cheese is produced and enjoy a traditional fondue lunch at the show dairy before returning to your hotel for dinner. B,L, D

DAY 4: LAKE GENEVA AND LAVAUX VINEYARDS

Travel through the stunning Lavaux wine region, where UNESCO-listed terraced vineyards stretch above the shores of Lake Geneva. Enjoy beautiful views, a ride aboard the charming Lavaux tourist train, and a tasting of regional wines before continuing into the heart of the Swiss Alps. Arrive in the mountain village of Zermatt, nestled beneath the majestic Matterhorn, and check into your hotel for the next two nights. B

DAY 5: GORNERGRAT AND THE MATTERHORN

Today you will ride the historic Gornergrat cogwheel railway and watch the mountain scenery unfold around you as you climb higher into the Alps. An unforgettable view awaits as you marvel at breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and more than 25 snow-covered peaks. Take time to enjoy the surroundings before returning to Zermatt, where a traditional Swiss Raclette dinner awaits. B, D

DAY 6: ZERMATT TO INTERLAKEN

Enjoy a relaxed morning to experience the charm and beauty of Zermatt, Switzerland's most famous Alpine village. You may wish to browse the boutique shops, stroll the car-free streets, or simply sit back and enjoy the mountain scenery. Later, travel by shuttle train to Täsch and continue to Interlaken, beautifully situated between two mountain lakes. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel for the next three nights and enjoy a group dinner. B, D

DAY 7: WATERFALLS AND MÜRREN

Travel to the remarkable Lauterbrunnen Valley. Surrounded by steep rock faces and towering waterfalls, this region offers some of Switzerland's most striking alpine scenery. Visit Trümmelbach Falls, where powerful glacier-fed waters rush through narrow rock formations inside the mountain. Later, continue to the charming car-free mountain village of Mürren, beautifully situated high above the valley. Enjoy time to take in the peaceful alpine atmosphere, admire the mountain views, and take a leisurely stroll through the village. In the evening, a musical program provides a traditional and entertaining end to the day. B, D

DAY 8: JUNGFRAUJOCH, THE "TOP OF EUROPE"

Prepare for a truly special day as you travel to Jungfraujoch, known as the "Top of Europe," aboard the world-famous mountain railway. Home to Europe's highest railway station, this remarkable destination offers glaciers, year-round snow, and far-reaching Alpine views. Visit the Ice Palace and the Sphinx Observation Deck. Savor lunch surrounded by this extraordinary mountain setting before returning to Interlaken for dinner. B, L, D

DAY 9: EXPLORING LUCERNE

Another unforgettable rail journey awaits aboard the scenic Interlaken Express to Lucerne. Sit back and relax as mountain landscapes unfold along the route. Once in Lucerne, discover the city's highlights on a guided city tour. See the Chapel Bridge, stroll through the charming Old Town, and enjoy the lakeside setting. Later, enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Lucerne before continuing to Zürich for dinner and an overnight stay. B, D

DAY 10: DISCOVER ZÜRICH

Discover Zürich, Switzerland's vibrant financial and cultural center, during a guided tour of the city. Explore the historic Old Town, elegant Bahnhofstrasse, and the city's welcoming lakeside atmosphere. This evening, a farewell dinner provides the perfect ending to this unforgettable Swiss journey. B, D

DAY 11: A FOND FAREWELL

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home, taking with you memories of scenic rail journeys, mountain villages, Swiss traditions, and experiences of authentic Alpine charm. B

QUALITY ACCOMODATIONS:

Nights 2-3: Everness Hotel and Resort, Chavannes-de-Bogis, Switzerland
Nights 4-5: Hotel Schweizerhof, Zermatt, Switzerland
Nights 6-8: Hey Hotel, Interlaken, Switzerland
Nights 9-10: Crowne Plaza, Zürich, Switzerland

Dates:

Jun 2-12, 2027

Price Per Person:

Double: $7,297
Single: $8,995

Pre/Post Tour Hotel:

Call for pricing

Depart/Return:

Chicago, IL

Inclusions:

• Round-trip airfare from the U.S.
• Professional, English speaking Tour Director
• Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
• Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
• Luggage handling at most hotels
• 24-hour emergency call service

Arrival Time

Available about 90 days prior to departure.

Departure Time

Available about 90 days prior to departure.

Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking

Our pre- and post-hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport. Parking can be arranged for the duration of the tour with a pre- or post-night booked. Please let us know ahead of time if you desire this service for additional information.

Walking Distance

To fully enjoy your vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace up to a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, many US and European airports require lengthy walks to get from ticketing counters to your departure gate and moveable walkways are not common throughout European Airports as they are in the United States.

Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.

We are finding that larger European cities are closing their historic districts to motor traffic. This, of course, adds to the amount of walking involved when visiting a city (sometimes on uneven and/or cobblestone walkways). In addition, please know you may be expected to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law requires mandatory motorcoach driver breaks.

Average Temps

In the mountainous regions, temperatures can be cooler, often from 41°F to 59°F (5°C to 15°C).
Cities like Zurich and Geneva see warmer temperatures, ranging from 59°F to 72°F (15°C to 22°C).

Currency

Swiss Franc

Time Zone

GMT+2

Hotel Amenities

Most accommodations are equipped with in-room amenities such as a hair dryer, iron, and coffee maker. In addition, some properties may also have a pool, fitness center, or laundry facilities.

Additional Information

A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.

Dress on tour is casual.

An outlet converter that adapts to European outlets is needed. You can find these at many stores, including Amazon and Walmart.

A valid US Passport is required for travel to/from the United States.

Please note that elevations do reach up to 11,332 feet on this tour. Cooler weather can also prevail at higher elevations.

We are featuring 5 trains on this tour. You can find the duration of those train rides below:

• GoldenPass Panoramic Train: 50 minutes
• Gornergrat Railway: 35 minutes
• Shuttle Train to Täsch: 15 minutes
• Jungfraujoch Mountain Railway: 2 hours
• Lucerne-Interlaken Express: 2 hours

Travel Protection Available?

Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.