8 days Contrasts of Switzerland
Taking the train around Switzerland, the contrasts of its mountain scenery, calm lakes, refined resorts and cosmopolitan ‘business hub' cities are discovered in relaxation and style.
| Day | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive Zurich (Flight not Included) | Welcome to Zurich in the heart of Switzerland. Admire Switzerland's financial capital during your orientation of the city. Join your Travel Director and fellow travellers this evening for a Welcome Reception. Meal(s) Welcome Reception Hotel Radisson Blu Airport |
| 2 | Zurich - St. Moritz | Your journey by train via Chur to St. Moritz takes you past snow-capped mountains and sparkling lakes. The scenery is incredible. Dine tonight at your hotel. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast Dinner Hotel Bären Authentic Accommodation |
| 3 | St. Moritz - Glacier Express - Zermatt (2 Nights) | All aboard one of the most spectacular train journeys in the world – the immensely comfortable air-cushioned and air-conditioned Glacier Express. An 8-hour railway journey takes you over 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels and across the Oberalp Pass at 2,033 metres above sea level. Enjoy an included lunch on board as you marvel at magnificent Alpine lakes and pristine glaciers en route to the unique resort of Zermatt, dominated by the Matterhorn. Walk a short distance to your charming hotel. Afterwards explore the nightlife in this lively year-round resort. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast Lunch Hotel Monte Rosa / Alpen Resort |
| 4 | Zermatt Orientation and Free Time | Your Travel Director takes you for an orientation walk of this charming car-free resort. Relax afterwards in the clean mountain air, shop for souvenirs or perhaps take a cable-car ride for more stunning views of the Alpine landscapes. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast |
| 5 | Zermatt - Geneva Orientation and Free Time | Your high-speed train journey takes you to Geneva, the capital of the Suisse Romande (French-speaking Switzerland) where many organisations including the International Red Cross are based. Admire the sights during your orientation including the Old Town, the Flower Clock and the Jet d'Eau. Later you may wish to dine on delicious Swiss specialities at a restaurant overlooking Europe's highest mountain Mont Blanc. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast Hotel Cornavin |
| 6 | Geneva - Interlaken - Lucerne (2 Nights) | The stunning scenery continues as you travel from Geneva along the Golden Pass route. Stop at Interlaken in the heart of the Swiss Alps between the glassy lakes of Thun and Brienz, at the foot of a trio of famous peaks the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. Spend time relaxing and enjoy superb views of the peaks of the Bernese Oberland, so beloved of Queen Victoria who often stayed at Interlaken. Reboard your train and follow the Brünig Pass to Lucerne in central Switzerland, your home for the next two nights. This evening why not learn to yodel at an optional fun-packed Swiss folklore show. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast Hotel Astoria |
| 7 | Lucerne Orientation and Free Time | Your orientation walk through the medieval city of Lucerne is fascinating. Visit the poignant Lion Monument built in memory of Louis XVI's Swiss Guard. View the covered wooden Chapel Bridge spanning the River Reuss and the decorated wooden panels, which chronicle the history of Lucerne. Later consider an Optional Experience to a nearby mountain peak, or explore the old city and shop for Swiss watches and delicious Swiss chocolates. Tonight celebrate with your companions and your Travel Director at a Farewell Dinner with wine in a local restaurant. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast Farewell Dinner |
| 8 | Lucerne - Depart Zurich | Say goodbye to Switzerland and your newfound friends at the end of your remarkable Swiss holiday. Your Travel Director will give you tickets for the short train journey from Lucerne to Zurich Airport, which can be used at your convenience for the onward journey. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast |