Best of Switzerland
Switzerland's indigo lakes and imposing Alpine backdrop seem to go on forever as you explore sophisticated cities, an ancient castle and the shores of Montreux. Enjoy the rugged beauty of the Alps in Zermatt cross Lucerne's Chapel Bridge, and traverse the picturesque Italian countryside, boarding a train from Tirano to St. Moritz for equally spectacular views.
- 12 Meals
- On-Trip Transport
- Airfare
- $80 per person optional excursion credit
- View the Chapel Bridge and Lion Monument in Lucerne, the Jungfrauand Matterhorn mountains (weather permitting), Lake Maggiore and Lake Como
- Visit the Federal capital Berne, the Castle of Chillon, Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Interlaken and Brienz
Rate is per person, land only, double occupancy, tour inclusions and available options may vary based on departure date. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however is subject to change, please confirm all details at time of booking.
Welcome to the sophisticated Swiss city of Zurich - a flawless blend of fascinating heritage and modern spirit which you will have an opportunity to explore before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception and orientation in this beautiful lakeside setting.
We leave the bright lights of Zurich behind and stop in Berne with its charming Old Town, admiring its cobblestone streets, ornate fountains and arcaded walkways. Journeying to Lake Geneva, we arrive in the resort town of Montreux, set against the pristine backdrop of snow-covered peaks and vineyards. After lunch, consider joining an Optional Experience to cruise Lake Geneva, including a visit to the Charlie Chaplin museum in his former estate, Manoir de Ban.
This morning, we visit the island castle of Chillon Castle, immortalised by Lord Byron's ‘Prisoner of Chillon'. For nearly four centuries, this water fortress was the residence of the Counts of Savoy and an important stop for traders. Our next stop is the 15th-century vineyards of Cave Champ de Clos for an unforgettable Be My Guest lunch in charming Chexbres. Continue your journey to the resort town of Zermatt, set against the backdrop of the imposing snow-capped Matterhorn, where we'll stay the next two nights.
Spend the day soaking up the crisp mountain air and panoramic alpine vistas. You have a full day at leisure to explore the town on your terms, or simply relax in beautiful surrounds. Consider an Optional Experience to the Klein Matterhorn for the most spectacular mountain views or explore the heritage of what was once a remote mountain village.
Departing Switzerland, we travel to the lakeside town of Baveno on Italy's picturesque Lake Maggiore. Spend the rest of the day soaking up the laidback lakeside atmosphere or consider joining an Optional Experience to Isola Bella, one of the lake's Borromean islands, with its palazzo and exquisite gardens.
We travel through the scenic Italian countryside, crossing the Swiss border into the scenic Upper Engadine Valley. We stop in the fortified town of Tirano where we will board our train and wind our way through spectacular alpine landscapes en route to the chic resort town of St. Moritz. This evening we dine at our hotel.
Meandering through lush green landscapes, past Lake Zurich, we arrive in the fairy-tale lakeside city of Lucerne, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Pay tribute to the brave Swiss Guards who lost their lives defending King Louis XVI at the Lion Monument and cross the iconic wooden Chapel Bridge before meandering through the city's cobblestone streets lined with colourful façades. Consider joining a cruise on the tranquil lake waters and then ride the world's first Cabrio cable car to the top of Mount Stanserhorn.
We travel to Interlaken at the heart of Switzerland, which lies in the shadows of the Jungfrau Mountain, stopping in the village of Brienz for a Cultural Insight into the centuries-old tradition of wood carving for which this village is so famous. Spend some time at leisure and enjoy superb views of the peaks of the Bernese Oberland. This evening we enjoy a Farewell Dinner with our fellow travellers and Travel Director toasting the highlights of Switzerland we've enjoyed along the way.
As our journey through the Best of Switzerland comes to an end, we bid our newfound friends a fond farewell. Transfers are available to Zurich airport. Conditions apply.
