grand tour of switzerland itinerary

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland (Itinerary, Info and Map)

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland offers visitors to this incredibly beautiful country a unique way to see all the highlights. 

Although it’s called a Switzerland train tour, the Grand Tour is actually a self-guided trip that combines Switzerland’s most scenic train rides with all the key sights. 

The Swiss Grand Train Tour comprises eight different legs, covering 1,280 kilometres, and visitors can choose to take as few or many of these trips as they like to create a bespoke itinerary reflecting their interests.

In this way, individual train tours in Switzerland can be designed just as the visitor pleases.

Whilst all eight sections can be completed in eight days, if time permits, we recommend you take a little longer to complete the route.

This is because taking the tour in eight days means travelling every day, leaving you short of time for seeing the sights and enjoying some time in each destination. 

Ideally, a 14 day Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is recommended for those who want to get the very best out of their trip through Switzerland. 

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The entire Grand Train Tour of Switzerland visits ten destinations, passes by eleven lakes, and incorporates journeys on all five premium panoramic trains.

Travellers wishing to enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime experience that is the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland can either make all their own rail and hotel arrangements, or they can book one of the Switzerland train tour packages that are based on the Grand Tour route.

We’ll cover both options in more detail below.

What's in this Article

Booking a Switzerland train tour package

The easiest way to plan your Grand Tour of Switzerland by train is to book a pre-designed Grand Train Tour package . There are a number of different packages available, ranging from 3 days / 2 nights up to 9 days / 8 nights.

These self-guided tours of Switzerland include all rail travel on your chosen route as well as accommodation. 

Travellers have the flexibility to amend the pre-designed itineraries to suit their own requirements.  Additional days can be added and excursions can be included at each destination.

Travellers can also choose the standard of accommodation and room type they prefer and choose between first class and second class train travel.

One of the most popular Switzerland train tours is the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – the Original.  This 8 day / 7 night itinerary includes rides on five of the most scenic trains Switzerland has to offer, making it the ideal way to tour Switzerland by train.

Seat reservations on the premium panoramic train rides in Switzerland are also included.

The ‘Original’ Grand Train Tour of Switzerland package can be easily extended if you have additional time and would like to spend more time in each destination. 

To make your Switzerland trip even easier, the tour can also be booked with luggage transport.

Simply leave your luggage in the hotel reception at the designated time each morning and it will be waiting for you at your destination hotel later the same day.

🇨🇭 Listen to our podcast episode about Swiss rail packages here .

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland price

Having the option to customise the itinerary to your own requirements makes a Grand train tour of Switzerland hotel package very affordable.

Prices for a 3 day / 2 night ‘Stunning Waters’ Grand Tour start from just CHF 300 per adult, whilst the 8 day / 7 night Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – the Original package starts from CHF 1280 per adult.

> Click here to browse all 10 Grand Train Tour of Switzerland packages  

EXCLUSIVE BONUS OFFER Holidays to Switzerland readers can benefit from a 5% discount when they book one of Switzerland Travel Centre’s Grand Train Tour of Switzerland journeys . Simply quote the code HTSWISS in the Promo Code box when making your booking to qualify for the discount.  > Click here to browse the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland itineraries .

Planning a DIY Switzerland Grand Train Tour 

If you love the research side of planning your trips, and have the time to book each of the components of your Switzerland train itinerary separately, we recommend you consider buying a Swiss Travel Pass .

This all-in-one public transport ticket covers all of Switzerland by train, bus, boat and tram. With the Swiss Travel Pass there’s no need to purchase individual train tickets in Switzerland for each leg of the journey, as the pass allows you to hop on and off each train in Switzerland as you wish.

The Swiss Travel Pass incorporates all of the premium panoramic trains that run throughout the country, including the Luzern-Interlaken Express, Glacier Express, GoldenPass Line, Bernina Express and Gotthard Panorama Express.  > Click here to buy your Swiss Travel Pass

(*Note: seat reservations – which are an additional cost – are compulsory for the Glacier Express, Bernina Express and GoldenPass Express Prestige Class, and are recommended for all premium panoramic trains.) 

Prefer to drive around Switzerland? Click here to see our 14-day itinerary of Switzerland by car.

The Original Grand Tour of Switzerland by Train Itinerary

The original 8-day Grand Train Tour of Switzerland itinerary visits the most popular tourist destinations in the country and includes rides on the famous Glacier Express, Bernina Express, GoldenPass Line and Gotthard Panorama Express. (See our Transport section for detailed guides on each of the premium panoramic trains.)

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland 8-day itinerary

• Day 1: start anywhere in Switzerland > Interlaken
• Day 2: Interlaken > Montreux
• Day 3: Montreux > Zermatt
• Day 4: Zermatt > St. Moritz
• Day 5: St. Moritz > Lugano
• Day 6: Lugano > Lucerne
• Day 7: Lucerne > St. Gallen
• Day 8: St. Gallen > finish anywhere in Switzerland

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland Sectors

There is no official start and finish point as visitors can choose to commence their journey wherever is most convenient.  You can, of course, add additional overnight stays in your chosen locations to extend the duration of your Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.

As Zurich is the gateway to Switzerland for most visitors, we have used it as the start and end point for this itinerary and have provided a day-by-day itinerary so you can see just how much of the country you can cover.

Zurich – Lucerne – Interlaken

Premium Panoramic Trains used: Luzern-Interlaken Express

Distance/Journey time: 131km / 2h:45

Highlights of the journey:

After travelling from Zurich to Lucerne by a regular intercity train, passengers join the Luzern to Interlaken Express which connects two of Switzerland’s most desirable destinations.

En route, visitors pass glistening lakes, tumbling waterfalls and enjoy alpine vistas, as well as travelling over the Brunig Pass. 

This scenic train in Switzerland journeys into the breathtaking Jungfrau region, and forms the first part of the GoldenPass Line that travels on to Montreux.

What to do in Interlaken

There are plenty of activities to enjoy in and around Interlaken , such as rafting, paragliding and canyoning. For the best views over the city and lakes Brienz and Thun, a funicular ride to Harder Kulm is highly recommended. 

Visitors can also take trips to Schnyige Platte, the Jungfraujoch or Brienz Rothorn, or take a train ride to gorgeous Lauterbrunnen.

Where to stay in Interlaken

• 3* Hotel Beausite > click here to check prices
• 4* Carlton Vintage Adults Hotel > click here to check prices

There are more hotels in Interlaken to suit all budgets in this article.

Interlaken – Montreux

Premium Panoramic Trains used: GoldenPass Express

Distance/Journey time: 120km / 3h:15

Highlights of the journey

As it departs Interlaken, the GoldenPass Express glides past Lake Thun before continuing to Zweisimmen in the Bernese Oberland, via the Simmen Valley. 

Along the way, this panoramic train in Switzerland passes a range of rivers, clear mountain lakes and waterfalls. Travellers can also see pastures where cattle graze and majestic castles. 

The glitzy resort village of Gstaad is an ideal place to stop off for a stroll and a meal, before reboarding for the final part of the journey.

The trip comes to an end when the train arrives in Montreux, on the shores of Lake Geneva.

What to do in Montreux

Popular activities in Montreux include lake cruises and visiting Chillon Castle, while some like to explore the nearby Lavaux vineyards. 

Other day trips from the city include the Alimentarium in Vevey, the world’s first museum dedicated solely to food, as well as excursions to Rochers de Naye, Geneva and Gruyeres. The latter is where the famous Swiss cheese originated. 

Where to stay in Montreux

• 3* Hotel Splendid > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel Eden Palace Montreux > click here to check prices

Browse more of the best hotels in Montreux in this guide .

Montreux – Visp – Zermatt

Distance/Journey time: 148km / 2h:30

This leg of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland takes visitors through the magnificent Rhone Valley. The destination is Zermatt , but before arriving in the home of the mighty Matterhorn visitors will pass through Visp. 

The Matterhorn Gotthard Railway then travels through the Nikolai Valley, climbing over 900 metres in altitude with the assistance of cogwheel technology.

What to do in Zermatt

Zermatt is famous for its car-free centre – as well as the majesty of the Matterhorn. There are spa springs and plenty of shopping to enjoy in the pretty resort of Zermatt. 

To see the Matterhorn more closely, visitors can take a cable car ride to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Alternatively, spending time on the Gornergratbahn is also popular. 

Hiking and skiing – which is available all year round – are also popular activities in Zermatt.

Where to stay in Zermatt

• 3* Hotel Bristol Zermatt > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel Mirabeau & Spa > click here to check prices

Read more: Best hotels in Zermatt.

Zermatt – Chur – St. Moritz

Premium Panoramic Trains used: Glacier Express

Distance/Journey time: 291km / 7h:45

Train rides in Switzerland don’t come much more iconic – or scenic – than the Glacier Express . This is surely the most dramatic of all train journeys in Switzerland, not least because it’s the longest sector. 

En route, travellers can marvel at typically Swiss panoramas including deep ravines, pretty villages, vast forests, 91 tunnels, 291 bridges, and the breathtaking Landwasser Viaduct. 

The slowest express train in the world – as it is often known – also crosses the Oberalp Pass.

What to do in St. Moritz

St. Moritz is an elegant ski resort where visitors can take to the slopes in winter or hike in summer.  Trips and activities on the lake are also popular.

It’s also a great place to take in the fresh mountain air while admiring sweeping views over the Swiss landscape. St Moritz also has a leaning tower that’s well worth a visit. 

Where to stay in St. Moritz

• 3* Hotel Waldhaus am See > click here to check prices
• 4* Crystal Hotel St. Moritz > click here to check prices

St. Moritz – Tirano – Lugano

 Premium Panoramic Trains used: Bernina Express

Distance/Journey time: 183km / 6h:30

Travel by train in Switzerland between St. Moritz and Lugano, and the journey will take you from the ski slopes of St. Moritz to the palm trees of Lugano, via Tirano in Italy and the 2253 metre high Bernina Pass. 

The Rhaetian railway line, on which the Bernina Express runs, is one of only three in the world that have been classified as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Lakes, switchback tunnels, and even an alpine garden can also be glimpsed along the way. 

The Morteratsch Glacier is also a highlight. 

What to do in Lugano

Lugano is a pretty Italian-influenced resort with an interesting Old Town and an enviable lakeside position. With something of a Mediterranean air, Lugano has a lovely palm-lined promenade. 

Visitors can take a lake cruise, or sample some Italian-style Swiss dishes at the town’s fine selection of cafes and restaurants. Mountain excursions to Monte Brè or Monte San Salvatore are also popular. 

Where to stay in Lugano

• 3* Continental Parkhotel > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel de la Paix > click here to check prices

Lugano – Flüelen – Lucerne

Premium Panoramic Trains used:   Gotthard Panorama Express

Distance/Journey time: 182km / 5h:30

Train tours in Switzerland don’t come much more diverse than the sector between Lugano and Lucerne. As the train rolls through the scenic landscape, visitors pass through the famed Gotthard panoramic route, then the impressive Reuss Valley. 

At  Flüelen, travellers board a modern motor boat or historic paddle steamer to glide across the waters of Lake Lucerne before reaching the city of Lucerne.

What to do in Lucerne

Lucerne is a city very much at the heart of Swiss history, so there’s lots to see and do in Lucerne . Many visitors like to take a boat cruise across Lake Lucerne. 

As well as exploring the town on the shores of the lake, travellers can see Chapel Bridge or take a mountain excursion to Rigi, Titlis, Pilatus or Stanserhorn.

Where to stay in Lucerne

• 3* Hotel des Alpes > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel Astoria > click here to check prices

Browse more accommodation options in our Lucerne Hotels Guide .

Lucerne – St. Gallen

Distance/Journey time: 125km / 2h:15

The Voralpen Express (Pre-Alps Express) takes travellers past some of the mightiest mountains of the Swiss Alps – including the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau. 

This panorama train in Switzerland begins at Lake Lucerne, passing gentle rolling green hills as well as majestic peaks en route. 

It also passes Rapperswil and the Rothenthurmer upland moors, before crossing Lake Zurich and the 99-metre high Sitter Viaduct before arriving in St. Gallen.

What to do in St. Gallen

The UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Abbey Library and District are a particular highlight of St. Gallen. Situated between Lake Constance and the Appenzeller region , St Gallen is a compact town that’s easy to explore on foot. 

The biggest draws include the open-air, art nouveau pool, the baroque cathedral and the library’s Rococo Hall.

Read our guide to things to do in St. Gallen here .

Where to stay in St. Gallen

• 3* Sorell Hotel City Weissenstein > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel Walhalla > click here to check prices

St. Gallen – Schaffhausen – Zurich

Distance/Journey time: 133km / 2h:30

Your train journey through Switzerland will reveal an interesting truth – the fact that this landlocked European nation has a real maritime heritage. Lake Constance in particular has played a leading role. 

The journey between St. Gallen and Zurich travels along the lake’s shore for 40 kilometres. After that, it traces the route of the Rhine past Schaffhausen, home of the Rhine Falls and Munot Fortress. The falls are the largest in Europe.

Should time allow, a side trip to the pretty medieval town of Stein am Rhein is highly recommended.

What to do in Zurich

Zurich is the financial and industrial hub of Switzerland, and as such is sometimes overlooked by visitors. However, it also boasts a fascinating Old Town – the Altstadt – that dates back to pre-medieval times. 

The Old Town is bisected by the Limmat River, and this has waterside promenades. The Rathaus dates back to the 1600s, and a stroll along Bahnhofstrasse – one of Europe’s most expensive shopping strips – is a must.

The city is built beside Lake Zurich which is popular for boat cruises and water sports. 

Where to stay in Zurich

• 3* Hotel Adler > click here to check prices
• 4* Hotel Schweizerhof Zurich > click here to check prices

Browse more of the best hotels in Zurich in this article .

Adding more days to your Grand Train Tour of Switzerland Itinerary

As mentioned above, the original Grand Train Tour of Switzerland route can be completed in eight days, however we suggest allowing more time in some destinations.

For a 12-day Switzerland by train itinerary, add additional nights in Interlaken, Zermatt, Lugano and Lucerne.  If you have 15 days available for your journey by train through Switzerland, stay two nights in each destination.

More Grand Tour of Switzerland by train itineraries

If you don’t have a full week available or don’t want to travel the entire Grand Train Tour route, you can choose to travel on the sectors that are of particular interest to you.

To make it easier to choose an alternative itinerary, a number of shorter Grand Train Tour package options are available.  Click on the tour name below for further details and see below for our bonus offer:

• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – The Original – 8 days / 7 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – The Classic – 7 days / 6 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Top Attractions – 5 days / 4 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Historic Tour – 6 days / 5 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Glaciers & Palm Trees – 4 days / 3 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Stunning Waters – 3 days / 2 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Hidden Treasures – 3 days / 2 nights

Travel all year round

No matter what time of year you plan to take your Switzerland holiday, you can enjoy your very own Grand Train Tour of Switzerland. 

The Swiss railways – and therefore the premium panoramic trains – operate year round* so even during the winter months it’s possible to enjoy these spectacular Swiss train journeys.

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland in winter takes in all the seasonal highlights of Switzerland, including pure white snow, frozen lakes and glaciers.  Click the tour names below for further details:

• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Winter Magic Tour – 7 days / 6 nights
• Grand Train Tour of Switzerland – Winter Edition – 9 days / 8 nights

*The Glacier Express does not operate between mid-October and around 9 December. There are no Bernina Express bus services in December and January.  The Gotthard Panorama Express only operates from mid-April until mid-October. Regular trains operate on the Glacier Express and Gotthard Panorama Express routes year round.

Don’t forget to quote the code HTSWISS in the Promo Code box when making your booking to qualify for a 5% discount on package holidays. 

No matter what season you travel, touring Switzerland by train makes for the most memorable of holidays.

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland App

Ready to plan your own Grand Train Tour of Switzerland? It is highly recommended that anyone undertaking this rail journey downloads the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland app.

The free app is available in seven languages, including English, German and Chinese. 

Using the app gives travellers access to exclusive offers via digital coupons and helps to make sure you get the best from all the key sights. 

The app will guide you as you make the journey, taking in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, lakes, alpine panoramas, glaciers and Swiss cities. Fun facts and top tips are given throughout, and you can tick off where you’ve been via the ‘been there’ function. 

You can also play by collecting rewards and stamps, which you can then share via social media. Those who become a ‘Master of Grand Train Tour of Switzerland’ will even receive a surprise reward at the end of the journey!

Final Thoughts about the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

Following the suggested eight sectors of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is a convenient way to see all the highlights the country has to offer – from north to south and east to west.

Should you not have time to cover the whole route, simply choose the sectors that connect the destinations you wish to visit and tailor your Swiss rail itinerary to suit.

Whether you prefer a DIY approach and want to purchase your Swiss Travel Pass or rail tickets and accommodation separately, or would rather book a package which includes transport and accommodation, the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is the ideal way to explore this scenic country.

Get your 5% discount by quoting the code HTSWISS in the Promo Code box when making your booking with Switzerland Travel Centre . 

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland Podcast Episode

Click the green arrow below to learn more about the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.

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Carolyn Schönafinger

Carolyn Schönafinger is a frequent visitor to Switzerland, the country she fell in love with more than 30 years ago. She now visits Switzerland every year in her quest to explore every inch of the country. Carolyn is a certified Switzerland Travel Expert and she has achieved the Swiss Travel System Travel Expert diploma. She loves sharing her Switzerland travel expertise and helping others to plan their dream Swiss vacation on this website and the Holidays to Switzerland Travel Podcast. Read more

Episode 62: Fun things to do in the Jungfrau Region with kids

Episode 63: Tips for planning your 2023 trip to Switzerland

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Grand Tour of Switzerland

Zurich – st. gallen – davos – lugano – zermatt – montreux – gstaad – lucerne – zurich.

Take an unforgettable road trip through Switzerland at your own pace! The country is small but offers an incredible variety of attractions: from palm-lined, crystal clear lakes to snow-covered mountain peaks, green rolling hills with farms to historic old towns and vibrant cities. Not to forget the culinary delights: You might sample not only the tastiest chocolate and cheese, but also some local specialties in each region. Let your adventure start and book your Grand Tour of Switzerland with us!

Grand Tour of Switzerland - Self Drive

April until October Starting at Double: CHF 1,725 Single: CHF 2,864

Tour Highlights

• St. Gallen’s Abbey precinct with library
• Sunny Engadine valley with its dark-blue mountain lakes
• Lugano’s Mediterranean flair including mountain scenery
• Car-free resort of Zermatt with the world-famous Matterhorn
• Montreux with the terraced Lavaux vineyards , UNESCO World Heritage
• Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau , the impressive peaks in Bernese Oberland
• Bern’s old town with 6km of arcades
• Lucerne with the Chapel bridge , imbedded within an impressive mountain panorama

Tour Program (9 Days / 8 Nights)

Day 1: arrival in switzerland.

Individual arrival in Zurich. Time at leisure to explore the vibrant city with its unique mix of attractions on your own. Overnight in Zurich.

Day 2: Zurich – St. Gallen (approx. 150 km)

Drive to St. Gallen with a stopover at the Rhine Falls, mainland Europe’s largest waterfalls. St. Gallen’s historic Abbey precinct with the cathedral and Abbey Library has been listed as UNESCO World Heritage and belongs to the top attractions along the Grand Tour of Switzerland. Overnight in St. Gallen.

Day 3: St. Gallen – Davos (approx. 160 km)

Drive from St. Gallen to Davos. On your way you pass the small town of Appenzell, situated in a landscape of rolling hills. The Appenzell region is known for rural customs and traditions. As an option you might stop in Eastern Switzerland’s wine area Bündner Herrschaft, before continuing to Davos. Overnight in Davos.

Day 4: Davos – Lugano (approx. 290 km)

On your way to Lugano in Southern Switzerland a visit to Muottas Muragl is recommended, a mountain in the Upper Engadine, overlooking the entire valley including world famous St.Moritz. Continue to Lugano. Stroll through Lugano’s old town to experience the Southern lifestyle. Overnight in Lugano.

Day 5: Lugano – Zermatt (approx. 215km)

Visit Monte Brè or San Salvatore before departing for Zermatt. Drive via Locarno towards Täsch, where you park the car before taking the train to the car-free resort of Zermatt. Overnight in Zermatt.

Day 6: Zermatt – Montreux (approx. 150km)

A trip up to Gornergrat with amazing views of the Matterhorn is not to be missed. Back in Täsch your final leg takes you through the Valais to Montreux, one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Lake Geneva region. Don’t miss out on the historic water Castle Chillon, situated on the shores of Lake Geneva. Overnight in Montreux.

Day 7: Montreux – Gstaad (approx. 330km)

Today you have one of your longest drives but also a very fascinating one with interesting sights along your way to Gstaad. Drive through the orchards and terraced vineyards of the Lavaux to Lausanne and from here continue your drive to Freiburg, which is nestled on a rock promontory. Further on your way you will pass the Gruyère region, home to the world-famous Gruyère cheese. Overnight in Gstaad.

Day 8: Gstaad – Lucerne (approx. 315 km)

Continue your journey either towards Interlaken or Berne, before heading to Lucerne. From Interlaken you can experience the majestic Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau summits. Otherwise head to Bern, the capital of Switzerland. The old town of Bern is UNESCO World Heritage and thanks to its 6 kilometres of arcades boasts one of the longest sheltered shopping promenades in Europe. Overnight in Lucerne.

Day 9: Lucerne – Zurich Airport (approx. 140 km)

Lucerne is the gateway to central Switzerland, and it is embedded within an impressive mountainous panorama. One of the highlights of Lucerne is the Chapel Bridge. Drive to Zurich Airport for rental car drop off. Departure.

Prices per Person in CHF

Triple and/or Rates for 5-star hotels on request!

Our Package Price includes

• 1 overnight each in Zurich, St. Gallen, Davos, Lugano, Zermatt, Montreux, Gstaad and Lucerne , quality hotels, standard rooms with private facilities and breakfast
• Rental car for 9 days with pick-up and drop-off at Zurich Airport
• Return rail ticket in 2nd class between Täsch and Zermatt
• Grand Tour of Switzerland Road Map and Travel Guide
• Swiss Coupon Pass

Our price does not include

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Transfers, meals and activities not mentioned in the list of inclusions, personal expenses
• Local taxes
• Car parking

Optional Extras

Upgrade rental car Extension nights possible Combinable with other arrangements (pre‐post tour extension) Open jaw is possible (i.e. starting in Lucerne and ending in Zurich or v.v.)

Grand Tour reservation request

The entire Grand Tour of Switzerland is even longer than the suggested route in above package. If you have more time to discover Switzerland, or would like to do only part of the Grand Tour, we are happy to put together any custom Grand Tour package for you. Please fill in below form:

Personal information

Tour information, additional nights.

Grand Tour of Switzerland – a road trip guide

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• grand-tour-road-trip-guide-switzerland

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 11.10.2023

Switzerland — a destination you voted one of the most beautiful countries in the world — offers travellers a rewarding range of experiences. And there’s no better way to experience that range than on a Grand Tour of Switzerland. This unforgettable road trip route covers everything from glaciers and palm-backed lakeshores, to charming villages and buzzy cities.

Start — explore the city of Zürich

1st stage — zürich to appenzel, 2nd stage — appenzell to st moritz, 3rd stage — st moritz to lugano.

• 4th stage — Lugano to Zermatt

5th stage — Zermatt to Lausanne

6th stage — lausanne to neuchatel, 7th stage — neuchatel to bern, 8th stage — bern to zürich, grand tour of switzerland alternatives — start or end in geneva, basel or chiasso, best photo spots on the grand tour of switzerland, tips for a road trip in switzerland.

Better yet, set off with The Rough Guide to Switzerland on hand to enhance every stage of your road trip.

The Grand Tour takes in dozens of Switzerland’s top attractions — including five Alpine passes, thirteen UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and twenty-two lakes.

Divided into eight signposted segments, it's an awe-inspiring circuit of 1643km. Covering cosmopolitan Zürich, Italianate Lugano, and the majestic Matterhorn, it offers a unique road trip of a lifetime. And they're just a small sample of the route's attractions.

In good news for travellers who want to travel more responsibly, the Grand Tour of Switzerland is the world’s first road trip for electric vehicles .

Bern is a highlight of the Grand Tour of Switzerland road trip © 4kclips/Shutterstock

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Switzerland, created by local experts

8 days  / from 2675 USD

Special Golden Round Trip to Switzerland (small group or private)

Stay active on Switzerland's mountains with hikes and cable cars before indulging in delicious Swiss cheese and wines around Lausanne and Geneva. Is there a better way to get a taste of Switzerland than to actually taste it? Pricing is based on a small group tour, enquire for a private tour!

11 days  / from 3531 USD

Unforgettable Switzerland

Discover Switzerland's real natural paradise. Enjoy 11 relaxed days of picturesque scenery, breathtaking views, romantic towns, eternal ice and snow, rural villages and historic buildings. Visit Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, Geneva and many other highlights.

7 days  / from 2675 USD

Lakes and mountains for the whole family in Italy & Switzerland

Spend your first 3 nights at Lake Como in Italy, discovering the area by boat or foot, before heading to Zermatt in Switzerland. Zermatt with its peaceful nature is the ideal backdrop for strolls, hikes and other activities with the whole family.

Zürich is the setting for the start of this Switzerland road trip. A vibrant city that blends urban verve with waterfront beauty and Renaissance grandeur. 

Zürich’s Old Town plays host to legend-steeped medieval churches, such as the mighty Grossmünster. It's also the stunning stage for Switzerland’s highest concentrations of clubs, and world-class museums. Kunsthaus , we're looking at you.

Head to hill-framed Lake Zürich to enjoy rewarding boat excursions. With its Mediterranean-style plazas, taking a trip to Rapperswil comes especially recommended. You also won't want to miss seeing the 15,000 rose bushes that gave rise to its “City of Roses” moniker,

Best places to stay in Zürich

• Best for culture vultures:  Alma Hotel . An upmarket hotel focused on sustainability.
• Best for couples:  Hotel Kindli . One of Zürich’s most charming small hotels.
• Best for nightlife-lovers:  Pension Furdich . Backing onto a park, this is close to funky bars and clubs.

Explore more accommodation in Zürich .

Zürich's Grossmünster church © S-F/Shutterstock

From Zürich, epic natural wonders await near Schaffhausen at Rhine Falls, Europe's largest waterfall.

With  Schloss Laufen perched on a cliff directly above the falls, this top grand tour of Switzerland photo spot blazes with drama.

The Rhine Falls and Schloss Laufen — one of the best grand tour of Switzerland photo spots © maloff/Shutterstock

Schaffhausen itself is likely to be a highlight of your Grand Tour of Switzerland. Boasting one of the country’s most beautiful medieval town centres, its riverside Old Town is crammed with glorious guild houses.

More old-time magic can be found in tiny Stein-am-Rhein, an almost perfectly-preserved medieval village.

Best places to stay in Schaffhausen and Stein-am-Rhein

• Best for city slickers:  Vienna House zur Bleiche Schaffhausen City . A business hotel with contemporary design.
• Best for couples:  Park Villa, Schaffhausen . An atmospheric old mansion on the edge of the Old Town. 
• Best for foodies:  Garni Adler, Stein-am-Rhein . With a fine façade, this has a great Swiss restaurant.

Discover more  places to stay around Schaffhausen .

Scenic schaffhausen © Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH/Shutterstock

No Grand Tour road trip around northeast Switzerland would be complete without spending time in relaxed St Gallen. 

Set in rolling wine country between the Appenzell hills and the Bodensee, St Gallen’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best places to stay in St Gallen

• Best for city centre style:  Einstein. A grand old hotel housed in a former textile factory.
• Best for the socially conscious:  Hotel Dom. Part of a project that trains and employs people with disabilities.
• Best for families:  Vadian . A friendly two-star on a quiet street near the cathedral.

Explore more  places to stay in St Gallen . 

The abbey of Saint Gall © Ruslan Kalnitsky/Shutterstock

The last leg of this stage of the Grand Tour of Switzerland takes you to Appenzell. In an area known for its traditional rural traditions, this impossibly quaint town has fairy tale allure.

Into the great outdoors? This region has lots of rewarding hiking trails to ramble in summer. Come winter, the hills are a paradise for cross-country skiers, with 200km of trails extending through the canton.  

All of which makes Appenzell a picture-perfect place to enjoy sports and outdoor activities in Switzerland . 

Best places to stay in Appenzell

• Best for foodies:  Hotel Appenzell . This gabled building on the square has a confiserie and top restaurant.
• Best for warm-hearted welcomes:  Gasthaus Hof . A friendly, old-fashioned hotel with rustic ambience.
• Best for luxury:  Romantik Hotel Säntis . This fine old hotel belongs to the prestigious Romantik group. 

Browse more  places to stay in Appenzellerland .  

Appenzell oozes traditional charm, making it one of the top grand tour of Switzerland photo spots © Sina Ettmer Photography/Shutterstock

This stunning segment of the road trip boasts more records than any other stage of the Grand Tour of Switzerland. These include Switzerland’s oldest city, and its only world monument,  Salginatobel Bridge .

The power of nature is uniquely presented at the Swiss Tectonic Arena Sardona UNESCO Heritage Site. Geological formations at this dramatic spot show the collision of the African and European continents. 

Meanwhile, if you’re travelling in Switzerland with children, you won’t want to miss exploring Heidi Village. Located in the Graubünden region, little ones will love following the idyllic Heidi Trail to the Heidi House. 

More charm can be found in Graubünden’s cantonal capital, Chur. Chockful of secret courtyards and cobbled alleys, Chur is Switzerland’s oldest town.

Cable car access to Brambrüesch mountain means Chur also has a host of hiking and biking trails on the doorstep. 

Best places to stay in Chur

• Best for couples:  Freieck . A comfortable hotel in sixteenth-century buildings.
• Best for foodies: Hotel Stern . Smart Old Town hotel with wood-beamed rooms and great food.
• Best for budget travellers:  Viva Hostel . This modern, lively hostel has a range of rooms.

Discover more  places to stay in Chur.  

Chur's charms are a highlight of the Grand Tour of Switzerland © Avatar_023/Shutterstock

If you fancy sampling some of Switzerland’s best outdoor experiences , you’ll want to explore the Swiss National Park in the Engadine.

For excellent hiking and scenery that’s inspired painters and poets for centuries, take a trip to Muottas Muragl mountain. Here the Panoramic Path traverses alpine hills and meadows, with views to glitzy St Moritz.

Meandering down from Alpine St. Moritz to Italianate Lugano, this stage of the Grand Tour of Switzerland has the most significant change in altitude and scenery.

With 350km of pistes, and no shortage of fine places to sleep, eat and make merry, it’s little wonder that St Moritz is esteemed as one of the world’s best ski resorts. 

Interestingly, though, thanks to its mineral springs St Moritz first came to fame as a summer spa town. And, to this day, there’s plenty to keep visitors happy in summer — from hiking and biking, to sailing, kitesurfing and Alpine golf.

Best places to stay in St Moritz

• Best for luxury:  Badrutt’s Palace Hotel . This legendary five-star is one of Europe’s swankiest hotels.
• Best for families:  Chesa Languard . A friendly little hotel with some of the best rates in the centre.
• Best for romantics:  Soldanella . A family-run hotel in an Art Nouveau building.

Explore more  places to stay in St Moritz . 

Swanky St Moritz © Shutterstock

From St Moritz, nature-lovers will want to continue their road trip to  Switzerland’s largest regional nature park, Parc Ela .

This stunning UNESCO Heritage Site is traversed by the Rhätische Bahn (Rhaetian Railway). One of the world's most scenic rail networks, this is travelled by the  Glacier Express  that runs from St Moritz and Davos to Chur. It then winds west over the Alps to  Zermatt .

To the northeast of Parc Ela, the Viamala gorge presents one of the best grand tour of Switzerland photo spots. Carved into rocks by glacial ice, the sheer 300m cliffs are a staggering sight. 

From here, the road trip route wends south to the Italianate-speaking canton of Ticino . 

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4th stage — Lugano to Zermatt

While you could explore this stage’s top sites on the way down, we’ll kick off in Lugano. This sits at the southern end of a segment that takes in an extraordinary number of bends. These comes courtesy of the Tremola road that snakes from Airolo. 

Basking in a sun-drenched bay of Lake Lugano, Lugano is framed by wooded hills and fronted by palm tree-lined promenades. It's also criss-crossed by winding lanes packed with places to enjoy some of the best eating and drinking in Switzerland . 

To the north, Locarno sits on the curve of a Lake Maggiore bay, with the surrounding valleys offering some of the most beautiful scenery in the Ticino canton.

Where to stay in Lugano and Locarno

• Best for families:  Lugano Dante, Lugano . A quality four-star by Lugano’s funicular station.
• Best for big spenders:  Splendide Royal, Lugano . Traditional style characterises this classic.
• Best for understated style:  Giardino Lago, Locarno. A quietly opulent waterfront hotel. 

Browse more places to stay in  Lugano  and  Locarno .

Locarno viewed from Cardada mountain © Eva Bocek/Shutterstock

Other highlights along the Grand Tour of Switzerland route that runs through Ticino include Ascona and Bellinzona, the latter of which has a trio of UNESCO castles. 

From Airola, the serpentine Tremola extends to Andermatt in Central Switzerland via the Gotthard Pass, which divides northern Europe from the south. 

Hair-raising hairpin bends characterise the Via Tremola of the Gotthard Pass © Freedom_wanted/Shutterstock

While journeying south towards Zermatt — the end point of this diverse stage of the Grand Tour of Switzerland — don’t miss seeing the Furka Pass on a steam train excursion. Enjoying fun train trips are among the best things to do in Switzerland with kids.

Alternatively, if you fancy finding serenity in truly sublime surroundings, the lesser-visited Goms area of the upper Rhône valley comes highly recommended.    

Presided over by (arguably) the world’s most famous mountain, the majestic Matterhorn, Zermatt is one of the world’s prettiest vacation villages.

Zermatt also offers easy access to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, which includes 360 kilometres of pistes, over 400 kilometres of hiking trails, and 54 mountain railways. As such, it's a place to unleash your inner adventurer.

• Best for Matterhorn views:  Kulmhotel Gornergrat . The highest hotel in the Alps is uniquely atmospheric.
• Best for glamour:  Grand Hotel Zermatterhof . One of the finest hotels in the country.
• Best for cosy comfort:  Hotel Allalin. This boasts modern, folksy decor and a spa.

Discover more places to stay in  Zermatt .

The Matterhorn offers some of the best grand tour of Switzerland photo spots  © Shutterstock

The route to Lausanne will take you through sunny Sion. Capital of the canton of Valais , Sion is home to a charming old quarter and two ancient castles. 

Another major attraction along this part of the road trip is the adventure sport hotspot of Les Diablerets. This high profile ski resort village is located in the canton of Vaud, much of which sits on the northern shore of Lake Geneva .

Meanwhile, before reaching Lausanne at the end of this stage of your road trip, you'll want to visit enchanting Château de Chillon, and upmarket Montreux.

Home to an esteemed jazz festival, Montreux features in our calendar of festivals in Switzerland and run-down of the best things to do in Switzerland in summer .

Enchanting Château de Chillon, Switzerland © FenlioQ/Shutterstock

Taking in Switzerland’s renowned watchmaking region, this stage kicks off in Lausanne , a city that’s lively, cultured and scenic with it. Think steep wooden hills tiered above a lake, an alluring Old Town, with the Cathédrale Notre-Dame rivalling its Parisian counterpart. 

Lausanne’s many cultural highlights include the Olympic Museum , the  Collection de l’Art Brut, and the  Musée Historique . Then there’s the Ouchy waterfront to wander. This elegant beauty spot plays host to free festivals around the year. 

If you plan to linger in Lausanne, the train des vignes runs through the terraced vineyards of Lavaux, offering views of the Savoy and Valais Alps from above Lake Geneva. 

Best places to stay in Lausanne

• Best for couples:  Angleterre & Residence . A classy hotel on the Ouchy waterfront.
• Best for luxury-lovers: Beau-Rivage Palace . Set in waterside gardens, this is one of Switzerland’s finest hotels.
• Best for families:  Elite . Lausanne's best mid-price hotel.

Browse more of the best places to stay in Lausanne .  

The Rough Guides to Switzerland and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Lausanne © Keitma/Shutterstock

The road trip route from Lausanne leads to  Jura Vaudois Nature Park — a magical landscape of forests, marshland and meadows. It also takes in the breath-taking  Creux du Van rock formation, around which a nature reserve protects animals and arctic-alpine flora. 

Southeast of Creux du Van, the route leads to Neuchâtel, home to Switzerland’s largest archaeological museum . With a charming lakefront promenade and enchanting 12th- century core, Neuchâtel inspires wonder as it transports visitors back in time.

From Lake Neuchâtel, the wateriest leg of the Grand Tour of Switzerland road trip leads you through the magnificent lake region. 

Along the way you won’t want to miss spending time in Fribourg. With its medieval Old Town set on a forested peninsula, this is one of Switzerland’s most magical spots. 

Best places to stay in Fribourg

• Best for affordability:  Hotel du Faucon . An excellent-value little hotel in the Old Town.
• Best for couples:  Hotel de la Rose . Cosy, comfortable and housed in a seventeenth-century building.
• Best for foodies:  Le Sauvage . A sixteenth-century townhouse with a fine restaurant. 

Find more  places to stay in Fribourg . 

Largely thanks to its fairy-tale castle, Gruyères is also a place of enchantment, with a strong tradition of cheese and chocolate-making.

As you route through the Bernese Oberland , opportunities for adventure present themselves. Gstaad, for example, is a mecca for celebrity winter-sports aficionados. Meanwhile, friendly outlying villages offer affordable family-oriented accommodation. 

Then there’s the mighty Jungfraujoch. The Jungfrau railway has been taking travellers to the highest station in Europe for over a century. This also happens to be one of the top grand tour of Switzerland photo spots. 

The same is true of the Lauterbrunnen valley, where a whopping 72 waterfalls rush from vertical cliff faces. 

Other highlights along the Bernese Oberland road trip route include Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Taking a paddle steamer cruise is the perfect way to soak up their splendour.  

Lake Thun © 9MOT/Shutterstock

On arrival in Bern , take an evening stroll around its UNESCO-protected Old Town to view the Zytglogge clock-tower, and find an atmospheric dinner spot. 

Of all Swiss cities, Bern is arguably the most immediately charming. Tucked into a peninsula of the River Aare and surrounded by wooded hills, the views over its Old Town roofs are spectacular. 

Alongside exploring the Old Town and Münster cathedral , art-lovers will want to visit Zentrum Paul Klee . To the east,  Bären Park  (Bear Park) is another Bern highlight. Bears have lived in a pit at this hilly beauty spot for centuries, with three of them currently residing in a new park.  

Best places to stay in Bern

• Best for history buffs:  Hotel Landhaus . The most attractive budget rooms in town.
• Best for character:  Hotel Marthahaus . A friendly, well-run hotel-pension.
• Best for budget travellers:  Bern Backpackers/Hotel Glocke . An Old Town fixture with excellent facilities.

Browse more of the best places to stay in Bern .  

Bern © Shutterstock

Further along this stage, you’ll want to stop off in Lucerne’s wondrous Wild West. Namely, the  UNESCO Biosphere Entlebuch  — an unspoilt, romantic reserve of Alpine pastures, moorland and karst landscapes.

Lucerne itself is Switzerland’s geographical and spiritual heart— steeped in history, and a gateway to Central Switzerland . Lucerne is also the ultimate slow travel destination .

From the city’s medieval squares, ancient guildhalls, and lakeshore, it’s easy to explore Lucerne’s magnificent regional mountains – the Pilatus and Rigi — en route to Zürich. And so our Grand Tour of Switzerland comes full circle.

Best places to stay in Lucerne

• Best for romantics:  Art Deco Hotel Montana . With its own funicular, this is among Switzerland’s best four-stars.
• Best for families:  Seehotel Kastanienbaum . In a village outside the city, this has a lakeside terrace.
• Best for budget travellers:  Backpackers . A laidback hostel on the lakeshore.

Explore more  places to stay in Lucerne .  

Pilatus, Lucerne © Swiss Tourism

One of the beauties of taking the Grand Tour of Switzerland is that it’s a circuit. This means there’s flexibility around where you start your road trip of a lifetime , with awe-inspiring access road trip routes to follow, too. 

You could choose to begin your Grand Tour of Switzerland in Geneva . Compact and cosmopolitan, the iconic Jet d’Eau fountain sits at the city's heart.

Our tip — explore Geneva's Italianate Carouge area for innovative artists’ workshops and excellent cafés. 

From Geneva, the route continues to Nyon, with its historic Old Town and easy-access to walking through wine country. It then leads to Saint-George and Neuchatal.

Alternatively, you could start your Grand Tour of Switzerland in Basel and work your way down to Neuchatal. 

Located on the Rhine, Basel boasts around 40 museums. It also has masses of medieval charm, with two Old Town squares and countless leafy courtyards overlooked by the majestic Münster cathedral.

If you’re keen to explore Switzerland’s Ticino region, consider kicking off your Grand Tour of Switzerland in Chiasso, which lies on the southern border with Italy. 

After exploring the town’s museums and taking a trip to the breath-taking Breggia Gorges, the route winds to Lugano, Locarno and Bellinzona.

Lugano in the Swiss canton of Ticino © Shutterstock

While it’s nigh impossible to pick the best photo spots on the Grand Tour of Switzerland, here are a few of our favourites.

• Best for epic nature: head to the Rhine Falls to capture the cascading, crashing waters of Europe’s largest waterfall backed by a fairy tale castle. Magic. 
• Best for adventurers: head to the  Gotthard Pass along the Tremola to snap snaking hairpin bends. 
• Best for culture vultures: Bellinzona’s Montebello Castle  is a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers mighty fine views of the region.

View of Castelgrande from Montebello Castle, Bellinzona © elesi/Shutterstock

• Best for winter wonderland fans: it goes without saying that the majestic Matterhorn offers countless opportunities to take sensational scenic shots.
• Best for bookworms: fans of children’s literature (and rustic charm) will take inspiration from their photos of Heidi House . 

For more inspiration, read up on the best photo spots on the Grand Tour of Switzerland that are marked along the route.

If you’re considering going on a Grand Tour of Switzerland road trip, you’ll want to arm yourself with rules and regulations of the road. 

Switzerland’s minimum driving age is 18 and third-party insurance is compulsory. It’s also compulsory to carry a red warning triangle, and the vehicle registration documents.  

If you plan to drive on Swiss motorways, you must stick a vignette inside your windscreen. Buy it from the customs officials when you first cross the border, or at post offices and petrol stations. 

Switzerland and Liechtenstein drive on the right, seatbelts are compulsory for all, and penalties for drink driving are tough. One glass of beer has you on or over the limit. 

Speed limits are 120kph (75mph) on motorways, 80kph (50mph) on main roads, 50kph (30mph) in urban areas, and 30kph (18mph) or less on residential streets. There are dozens of cameras, radars and laser traps to catch speeders, with spot fines levied. 

Trams and buses have priority on Switzerland's roads © MrinaD_37/Shutterstock

At junctions, yellow diamonds painted on the road show who has priority. If in doubt, let trams and buses go first, and give way to traffic coming from your right. On gradients, vehicles heading uphill have priority over those coming down. 

If you hear a loud horn or klaxon sounding on country lanes or twisting mountain roads, it means a postbus is approaching. This always has priority.

In winter, signs indicate where snow-chains are necessary — practise fitting and removing them beforehand.

Switzerland's mountains make a stunning backdrop for road trips © 4kclips/Shutterstock

Want to know more before planning your Grand Tour of Switzerland road trip? Get your hands on a copy of The Rough Guide to Switzerland  and read up on things not to miss in Switzerland .

Our  Switzerland travel tips and guide to accommodation in Switzerland will also help you plan your trip.

Not a fan of planning? You could book a hassle-free tailor-made trip to Switzerland, with customisable itineraries covering the likes of  unforgettable highlights of Switzerland , and touring the Grand Circle .  

This article is brought to you in partnership with  My Switzerland .

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences .

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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Travel advice for Switzerland

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Switzerland

• Geneva travel guide
• Lausanne travel guide
• Zürich travel guide
• Basel Switzerland Travel Guide (2022 update)
• Bern Travel Guide
• Lucerne Travel Guide
• Lake Geneva Travel Guide
• Northeast Switzerland and Liechtenstein Travel Guide
• Sports and outdoor activities in Switzerland
• Bernese Oberland travel guide
• Jungfrau Region travel guide
• Valais travel guide
• Graubünden Travel Guide
• Zermatt and the Matterhorn travel guide
• Central Switzerland Travel Guide
• Ticino Travel Guide
• Best accommodation in Switzerland
• How to get to Switzerland
• Culture and Etiquette in Switzerland
• Eating and drinking in Switzerland
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• Festivals in Switzerland

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Grand Tour of Switzerland

from £3176 excluding flights

• Continental Europe
• Itinerary Itinerary
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Our specialist

2 Sleeper train journeys

330 Kilometers per hour is the fastest train travelled on

Take four iconic rail journeys including the Glacier Express & Golden Pass

Immerse yourself in the Alpine paradise of St Moritz

Delve into Lucerne’s beautiful old town

Visit the famous terraced vineyard of Lavaux

Sit back and relax as you cruise across Lake Lucerne

Explore the Bernese Alps from Interlaken

Why this trip...

On track and flight free.

Slow travel from London to the classic towns and cities of Europe with your rail tickets and accommodation taken care of

Carefully planned

This itinerary has been thoughtfully designed to provide the experiences and places you'll enjoy at a comfortable pace

Tailor made

This itinerary can be tailor made to suit you and is intended to give you a guideline of what is possible in a given timeframe

Combine the spectacular alpine scenery of Switzerland and the engineering prowess of the Swiss and you have a recipe for truly extraordinary rail journeys. In fact, we think this two-week itinerary is one of the best rail holidays in the world. Not only does it seamlessly link four iconic and seriously scenic train journeys – Gotthard Panorama Express, Bernina Express, Glacier Express and the Golden Pass – but it also includes ample opportunities for exploring medieval towns and cities, sampling traditional Swiss cuisine and enjoying the odd mountain hike, cable car ride or boat trip. What’s more, it’s completely flight-free – simply hop on a train at London and let your rail adventure begin!

Gotthard Panorama Express

The first stage of Grand Tour of Switzerland is on the Gotthard Panorama Express – a combination of boat and train travel. Departing the beautiful city of Lucerne, take a relaxing journey by water on the Lake Lucerne boat, passing Tell’s Chapel and Rütli Meadow before arriving in Flüelen. Transfer to the 1 st class train of Gotthard Panorama Express and begin your journey by climbing in tight loops above the village of Wassen with its eye-catching Baroque church before travelling through the 15km-long Gotthard Tunnel and the vineyards of Gionico. The railway takes you past the 15th-century castles of Bellinzona (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), before arriving in the Mediterranean city of Lugano, with its grand palaces and fine parks.

Bernina Express

Another contender for Switzerland’s most scenic rail journey, the Bernina Express is the highest railway in the Alps, crossing the 2,253m Bernina pass, tackling gradients as steep as 1 in 7 and negotiating 55 tunnels and 196 bridges on its trans-Alpine route between Tirano in northern Italy and Chur in Switzerland. Roll out of sunny Tirano, passing picturesque villages like Poschiavo, climb through flower-speckled meadows and conifer forest to the Morteratsch Glacier and upon reaching the alpine town of St Moritz. Slow travel at its best!

Glacier Express

It takes around 7.5 hours to trundle 180 miles on the famous Glacier Express, travelling at an average speed of just 24mph. The slower the better as far as we’re concerned! Linking the iconic ski resort of St Moritz with Zermatt at the foot of the Matterhorn, this is arguably Switzerland’s most scenic train journey, and you’ll want to spend every minute soaking up the views of snow-capped peaks, alpine forests and mountain villages from the special panoramic coaches used on this route. Highlights include the remarkable mountain-to-mountain Landwasser viaduct – one of nearly 300 bridges traversed, the Oberalp Pass and the Rhine Gorge (the ‘Grand Canyon of Switzerland’.

Golden Pass

Connecting Lake Geneva with central Switzerland, the Golden Pass route is operated on the direct Golden Pass Panoramic trains between Montreux and Interlaken. This breathtaking route through the heart of some of Europe’s finest mountain scenery, takes just over 3 hours Highlights of the journey include the steep climb from Montreaux, weaving through vineyards and country estates to the stunning scenery of Bernese Oberland.

Depart London in the morning and travel to Paris Gare du Nord on Eurostar. Transfer to Gare du Lyon, just two stops on the Paris PER, before departing on your onward journey to Lucerne. Spend the following two nights in Lucerne.

Spend your day exploring what many consider to be one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Hugging the shores of Lake Lucerne, with mountains as a backdrop, Lucerne’s must-see highlights include the 14th-century landmark of Chapel Bridge, the old city square of Weinmarkt and the fortified Musegg Wall. Don’t miss the Dying Lion of Lucerne – a rock sculpture described by Mark Twain as ‘the saddest and most moving piece of rock in the world’. Perhaps take a day trip to one of the spectacular mountains surrounding Lucerne, Mt Pilatus, Mt Titlis or Mt Rigi. In the evening, try regional specialities like Lucerne vol-au-vents, dried meats or fillet of lake trout. Overnight in Lucerne.

Depart Lucerne on a voyage along Lake Lucerne, passing Rütli Meadow (where Switzerland was founded in 1291) and Tell’s Chapel (where Wilhelm Tell is said to have made his daring escape). Arrive in Flüelen and transfer to the historic Gotthard Panorama Express to Lugano. Travelling in a first-class panorama coach, relax as you watch the spellbinding scenery slip past. Highlights include Wassen, where the train gains height in a series of loops, allowing you to admire the village’s striking Baroque church several times before travelling through the 15km-long Gotthard Railway Tunnel, a masterpiece of engineering dating from 1882. Travelling past the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the trio of 15th-century Bellinzona castles of Castelgrande, Montebello and Sasso Corbaro before arriving in the lakeside town of Lugano.

The Italian-speaking Swiss town of Lugano is not only famous for its spectacular views of the San Salvatore and Bré Mountains, but also for its colourful neoclassical architecture and intimate old town. With two days to explore Lugano, we’d recommend taking the funicular up to San Salvatore or Bré Mountain and then hiking back, taking a boat trip on Lake Lugano, sampling some local and seasonal cuisine and simply enjoying the town’s beautiful architecture – the cathedral of San Lorenzo is well worth a visit. Overnight in Lugano.

Your first part of the journey is on the 3-hour Bernina Express bus to Tirano, where you join another classic route: the Bernina Express train to St Moritz. Climbing to 2,253m, you’ll reach Ospizio Bernina station – the highpoint of this exciting trans-Alpine railway. Panoramic carriages provide unobstructed views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks. Spend the following two nights in St Moritz.

Birthplace of Alpine winter tourism, St Moritz has twice hosted the Winter Olympics – but summer is equally beguiling in this spa resort where mineral springs were discovered 3,000 years ago. With a full day to immerse yourself in this Alpine paradise, choose from a plethora of activities, ranging from hiking and mountain biking to sailing, horse riding and golf. Don’t miss a romantic carriage ride around the lake, through the town or Staz forest. Overnight in St Moritz.

Embark on the classic Glacier Express rail journey to the famous Swiss ski resort of Zermatt at the foot of the Matterhorn. This 290km, 7.5hr train ride takes you through a head-spinning kaleidoscope of snow-capped peaks and narrow valleys, through spiral tunnels and across the Obralp Pass. Perhaps the crowning glory of this epic train journey is traversing the Landwasser – a curved, six-arched limestone viaduct, completed in 1902 and carrying you 65m above a ravine before burrowing straight into a tunnel carved in the cliff face. Overnight in Zermatt.

Spend the day exploring this car-free village offering numerous summer activities. We recommend the cogwheel train ride to Gornergrat which takes you to over 3,000m for a breathtaking view of the Matterhorn. It’s also a great starting point for Alpine walks.

Spend the morning and afternoon exploring this car-free village offering numerous summer activities. We recommend the cogwheel train ride to Gornergrat which takes you to over 3,000m for a breathtaking view of the Matterhorn. It’s also a great starting point for Alpine walks. In the late afternoon or evening, take a leisurely 2.5 hour train journey to Montreux via Visp. Following two nights in Montreux.

An idyllic montage of mountains, lake and vineyards… Montreaux has inspired artists, writers and musicians ranging from Freddie Mercury and Prince to Igor Stravinski. It feels almost Mediterranean along the shores of Lake Geneva between Villeneuve and Lutry where Montreaux Riviera enjoys a microclimate that sustains the famous terraced vineyard of Lavaux (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Enjoy a wine tour, or venture from the lake shore into the forests where walking trails lead through alpine meadows to fabulous panoramic viewpoints. Overnight in Montreaux.

Today, you continue your journey on the Golden Pass Panoramic train. Leaving Montreux, enjoy the wonderful views of Lake Geneva before climbing to the glitzy Swiss resort of Gstaad and then on to a high point near Saanenmöser at 1,279m, finally weaving through the mountain-framed Simmen Valley, verdant with farms and forests, before arriving in Interlaken, where you spend the following two nights.

Boasting spectacular views of three famous Swiss peaks – Mönch, Jungfrau and Eiger – Interlaken makes a superb base for exploring the Bernese Alps by train, funicular, cable car and, of course, via an extensive network of hiking trails. An optional cruise on either Lake Thun or Brienz aboard an historic paddle-steamer is highly recommended. Overnight in Interlaken.

Spend the morning and afternoon to explore further in the Interlaken area before embarking on the 2 hour train journey to Zürich, where you spend the following 2 nights.

With a full day to explore Zürich, we suggest heading to the medieval old town, Altstadt, and strolling along the waterfront where you can admire the beautiful guild houses that were built for tradespeople such as carpenters, merchants and spice dealers. Zürich’s Niederhof area is also worth exploring. Dominated by the Romanesque church of Grossmünster, it’s riddled with cobblestone alleys lined with trendy boutiques and Swiss eateries. Don’t miss the Neo-Baroque Conditorei 1842 where you can treat yourself to traditional sweets or sample the truffles, pralines and cakes. Visit the Cabaret Voltaire to learn about the birth of the Dada movement over a century ago. Overnight in Zürich.

Board the morning train to Paris Gare du Lyon, then transfer to Gare du Nord for the evening Eurostar to London.

Accommodation Options

We will recommend accommodation for this holiday, but with a vast choice available, we can adapt to suit your personal preference mixing different grades and styles in different cities.

Prices and Departures

Price from £3176 excluding flights.

This itinerary is based on rail travel from the UK, so flights are not required.

What's Included

• Accommodation in rooms with private bathroom
• Breakfast throughout
• Interrail Pass for 15 days
• All compulsory seat reservation fees on panorama and international trains
• 24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
• No surcharge guarantee
• Full financial protection

Based on two sharing a twin room with private facilities and breakfast. Prices may vary depending on departure date. Please contact us for a detailed quote based on your preferred travel dates.

*Please note that flights are not included in the price, but will be quoted at the time of booking.

This itinerary is flexible and the number of nights at each of the overnight stays can be extended or reduced.

Children under 12 travel free on the parent's Interrail Pass and 12-27 year olds receive a discounted youth Interrail Pass. Accommodation is in family rooms where available. Please contact our travel specialist for a quotation.

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A train rolls through the Bernese Oberland region of Switzerland.

Switzerland’s Grand Tour: Train Travel Itinerary

Climb aboard for an epic public transit tour of Switzerland. This seven-day itinerary is a celebration of all things transport: trains, boats, buses, zip lines, cogwheel trains, funiculars, and more.

By Maryellen Kennedy Duckett

GATEWAY AND DEPARTURE AIRPORT Zurich Airport , Zurich

Climb aboard for an epic public transit tour of Switzerland. This seven-day itinerary is a celebration of all things transport: trains, boats, buses, cogwheel trains, funiculars, and more. The sample schedule is tight, so consider adding days to spend more time in specific destinations. Also, some sections of the route are seasonal, so check operating dates carefully when planning your trip. For unlimited access to trains, buses, boats, and public transportation, buy an all-in-one Swiss Travel Pass . (Tip: Kids under 16 travel for free with a parent who has a Swiss Travel Pass.) For a rail-only ramble, consider the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland , a four- to eight-day train-palooza covering up to 795 miles of all the great rail routes of Switzerland.

DAY ONE: LUCERNE TO INTERLAKEN

GET THERE BY PUBLIC TRANSIT Lucerne-Interlaken Express train

MAKE TRACKS Take the train from Zurich to your starting point in Lucerne. There, board the Lucerne-Interlaken Express , one of three lines that are part of the GoldenPass line. Although regular trains ply the route, this is a special branded trip with carriages offering panoramic windows, infotainment systems, and platform-level entry. The two-hour journey travels through Brünig Pass into the Bernese Oberland and shows off Alpine lakes, gorgeous waterfalls, mighty tors, meadows dotted with cows, and the Brünig Safari, a zoo of wooden animals displayed from May to October along the route between Giswil and Meiringen (check with the train crew on when to look).

OPEN-AIR MUSEUM Consider a stop in Ballenberg to visit its fascinating open-air museum (open mid-April through October) featuring traditional architecture and buildings from all over the country. Exhibitions include the history of naturopathy and the drugstore, Swiss costumes and music in the house from Burgdorf, and the legacy of agriculture sponsored by the Swiss Farmers Association, among many others.

MOUNTAIN VIEW Travel back in time aboard the Wilderswil to Schynige Platte cog railway featuring 19th-century carriages. You’ll see views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau during the 50-minute journey up to and on the mountain. For a different perspective, take the cableway up to Interlaken’s local mountain, the Harder Kulm . The cableway station is a short walk from the train station, and the ten-minute cable car ride zips you up to an elevation of 4,337 feet. And from Interlaken Ost railway station, it’s only 75 minutes by train (transfer in Lauterbrunnen) to Kleine Scheidegg , billed as the “center of the Alps.” The railway station here sits at the summit of the 6,762-foot pass, which has views of the famous north face of the Eiger.

EAT Hüsi Bierhaus , Interlaken

STAY Hotel Rössli , Interlaken

DAY TWO: DAY TRIP TO JUNGFRAUJOCH

GET THERE BY PUBLIC TRANSIT Jungfraujoch Railway

MIGHTY MOUNTAIN Today is devoted to the cogwheel train from Kleine Scheidegg to Jungfraujoch, and the highest railway station in Europe (elevation 11,332 feet). The Jungfraujoch Railway covers five and a half miles and climbs more than 4,500 feet, including over four miles through a mountain tunnel. At the top, there are hiking trails and a full range of activities, including tubing on the year-round snow, hiking, and dining in the Top of Europe tourist complex. Climb the observation platforms on the 14-mile-long Aletsch Glacier (the longest Swiss Alpine glacier and part of a UNESCO World Heritage site). Visit the Ice Palace, a world of ice floors, walls, and sculptures that is constantly refurbished as the ice shifts and melts.

EAT Restaurant Eigergletscher , Jungfraujoch

DAY THREE: INTERLAKEN TO MONTREUX

GET THERE BY PUBLIC TRANSIT BLS RegioExpress train > Zweisimmen; GoldenPass Panoramic or GoldenPass Classic trains > Montreux

ABOARD AGAIN The remaining rail trip to Montreux has two legs: Take the BLS RegioExpress to Zweisimmen, then board either the GoldenPass Panoramic or GoldenPass Classic . The former is a modern train with big windows for viewing the countryside. The latter is a reproduction of the belle epoque style of traveling and features cars with decor from the 1930s; one of the coaches is a wine cellar that offers tastings.

SWEET RIDE In Montreux, add a sweet twist to the transportation theme by riding the Chocolate Train , a joint venture of GoldenPass Services and Cailler-Nestlé (operates from late spring to early fall, May through October). Going to medieval Gruyères and back, the train offers both a modern panoramic carriage and a vintage 1915 Pullman car—take your pick. The fare includes a sweet tour of the Cailler-Nestlé Chocolate Factory in Broc and a cheese factory in Gruyères. (Note: Gruyères is a day trip).

MORE MUNCHIES The Cheese Train also operates from Montreux, doing the round-trip to Château-d’Oex on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from winter to spring (reservations required). Learn the secrets of cheese-making and visit the Vieux Pays-d'Enhaut, a Swiss folklore museum.

ALTERNATIVE OVERNIGHT If you don’t feel like traveling all the way to Montreux, consider spending the night in Gstaad. The jet-set town is a wonderland in winter, featuring not only skiing but eight thrilling toboggan runs. Take a gondola to the top of the local mountain, Wispile, for views year-round. Shop in the upscale town center for luxury brands and indulge yourself and stay at the five-star Alpina Gstaad .

EAT Montreux Jazz Café , Montreux

STAY Eurotel Montreux , Montreux

DAY FOUR: MONTREUX TO ZERMATT

GET THERE BY PUBLIC TRANSIT IR (InterRegio) train > Visp; R (Regio) train > Zermatt

ALL ABOARD The next part of this train journey involves one connection: Travel first from Montreux to Visp, then transfer to a Regio (regional) train or the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn into car-free Zermatt.

SIGHTING THE MATTERHORN The Matterhorn , the symbol of Switzerland, near Zermatt, is not always easy to see, especially in bad weather. Increase your chances by heading up a nearby alp on the Gornergrat Bahn . Sit on the right side of the railway on the way up and on the left going down for the best views of about 30 peaks, some topping 13,000 feet. At the top, you’ll find an observatory and food service.

MOUNTAIN MUSEUM The Matterhorn Museum Zermatlantis traces the development of Zermatt from farm village to Alpine resort, with a particular focus on the first modern ascent of the Matterhorn in 1865. Four of the seven climbers died on the descent, and the museum displays the broken rope from that event. A special exhibit running until April 2016 details the deadly story of the first climb.

AERIAL ADVENTURE For an adrenaline rush in the treetops, head to the Forest Fun Park in Zermatt. The park is a maze of 110 platforms and 25 zip lines.

GONE TO THE DOGS The Saint Bernard has been the Swiss national dog since 1887. Learn about the breed and its connection to Switzerland’s Great Saint Bernard pass at the Barryland Musée et Chiens du Saint Bernard (Saint Bernard museum) in Martigny. The museum is housed in a former armory next to a Roman amphitheater. And though the exhibits are informative, the star attractions here are the friendly Saint Bernard dogs that spend the summer (typically late June to October) at the kennels on the Great Saint Bernard Pass. Summer museum tickets include opportunities to see and possibly pet the dogs. Small group hikes with the dogs typically are offered for an added fee (reservation required).

EAT Höfu , Zermatt

STAY Hotel Firefly , Zermatt

DAY FIVE: ZERMATT TO SAINT MORITZ

GET THERE BY PUBLIC TRANSIT Glacier Express (not available late October to early December)

WINDING RIDE Today you’ll spend eight or so hours on the famous Glacier Express —the only train which makes fresh food directly onboard. Billed as the slowest express train in the world, the historic railway connects Alpine Zermatt with the glamorous resort town of Saint Moritz. The route travels through such areas as the 6,670-foot Oberalp Pass before dipping into the Rhine Gorge (up to 1,300 feet deep), also known as “the Swiss Grand Canyon.” Along the way see the Domleschg Valley’s castles and the traditional houses of the Engadin with their elaborate sgraffito (layered plaster adorned with decorative etchings) facades.

AS FAR AS THE EYE CAN SEE Stop in Punt Muragl to take the funicular railway to Muottas Muragl , the best place to get an overview of the area. Take in the mountain peaks, look down on the lakes of Engadin and, at night, see the twinkling lights of the villages below. Skiing is the thing here, of course, but alternatives are a stroll on the Philosophers’ Trail through a landscape of mountain beauty or the toboggan run down the mountain.

WORLD HERITAGE On Sundays, the Albula Experience offers open carriages (June through September) from Landquart to Samedan, through a UNESCO World Heritage site. The locomotive leads the way over the Solis and Landwasser viaducts and into the tunnels between Preda and Bergün, where you can visit the Albula Railway Museum .

ANCIENT HISTORY It’s worth a stop in Chur to visit Old Town , a car-free area that has a settlement history going back 5,000 years or more. Visit the capital of Graubünden's three museums or more than 500 shops.

EAT Pavarotti & Friends, Plazza dal Mulin 3 7500 Saint Moritz +41 81 833 07 00 (no website)

• Nat Geo Expeditions

STAY Kulm Hotel Saint Moritz , Saint Moritz

DAY SIX: SAINT MORITZ TO LUGANO

GET THERE BY PUBLIC TRANSIT Palm Express bus

ROLLING ALONG For the journey from Saint Moritz to Lugano, you’ll switch to the Palm Express , a four-hour bus ride that takes you from glaciers to palms through northern Italy. The route includes some single-lane roads and passes through Silvaplana and Sils, over the Maloja Pass, and into the Bregaglia Valley, then onto the shores of Lake Como and Lake Lugano.

CRUISE LAKE LUGANO The lake is the main attraction in Lugano. There are more than 30 boat excursions from which to choose. The Crociera Lunch Boat , for example, is a midday cruise, with meal service, that stops so you can get off and explore at Swissminiatur, a park full of Swiss landmarks in miniature; Morcote; Scherrer Park, a magnificent house and garden in Morcote; and Serpiano.

EAT Ristorante Deseo , Lugano

STAY Villa Principe Leopoldo , Lugano

DAY SEVEN: LUGANO TO LUCERNE

GET THERE BY PUBLIC TRANSIT Wilhelm Tell Express

LAST LEG The last part of your journey takes you two and a half hours north from Lugano via rail, then two and a half hours from Flüelen on a paddle steamer or salon motorboat to Lucerne—collectively called the Wilhelm (William) Tell Express . The train travels on the legendary Gotthard Line, which includes several exciting spiral tunnels and the Gotthard Tunnel, which opened in 1882. The boat cruise passes Tell’s Chapel, the spot where, as legend has it, William Tell escaped from an Austrian bailiff called Gessler, who he later killed. This led to the Swiss Confederation’s assembly on August 1, 1291. The anniversary of the day is still celebrated as a Swiss holiday.

SWISS TRANSPORTATION ON DISPLAY End your adventure with a celebration of what you have experienced on this trip. Visit the Verkehrshaus der Schweiz aka the Swiss Museum of Transport , Switzerland’s most popular museum, in Lucerne. There is a Swiss rail collection that includes an impressive display of railroad stock such as vintage locomotives and carriages.

EAT Blend Teehaus , Lucerne

STAY Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern , Lucerne

Related Topics

• TRAIN TRIPS

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11 DAYS SWITZERLAND GRAND TOUR BY RAIL

Lucerne, Andermatt, Zermatt, Montreux, Lausanne, Bern, Interlaken, Zurich

Outdoor & Adventure, History & Culture, Rail Journeys, Nature & Wildlife

• Learn about the history and innovation of Swiss chocolate from a professional chocolatier on a chocolate making and tasting workshop
• Soak up the spectacular landscapes through the large panoramic windows of the Glacier Express
• Pair local Swiss wines with a sumptuous lunch at historic wineries among the gorgeous terraced landscape of the UNESCO listed Lavaux vineyards
• Enjoy the picture-perfect Swiss Alps, where the scenic journey on world-class gondolas, cogwheel trains and cable cars is all part of the experience
• Luggage transfer service between hotels for a hassle-free train journeys

This mountainous nation in the heart of Europe is a melting pot of cultures from its larger neighbours of France, Germany, Austria and Italy, with its own touch of quaint traditions and high tech innovation to create a uniquely Swiss identity.

Our journey takes in some of the best that Switzerland has to offer, from beautiful historic cities like Lucerne, Lausanne, Bern and Zurich, to an incredible natural landscapes of alpine mountains and glaciers, lakes and rivers, accessible by an extensive network of cable cars, gondolas, cogwheel trains and boats. The Swiss train system is one of the most efficient and comfortable in the world, and is an excellent means of exploring this beautiful country, with some iconic rail journeys.

Itinerary Outline

Day 01 arrival in zurich / lucerne, day 02 lucerne, day 03 lucerne / andermatt / zermatt, day 04 zermatt, day 05 zermatt / montreux / lausanne, day 06 lausanne, day 07 lausanne / bern / interlaken, day 08 interlaken, day 09 interlaken, day 10 interlaken / zurich, day 11 departure from zurich, sgd 8,880 per person.

DETAILED ITINERARY

Upon arrival in Zurich, meet your driver at the arrival hall and transfer to your hotel in Lucerne (approx. 70km, 50min).

Enjoy a private walking tour with your local guide. Lucerne , the gateway to central Switzerland, is embedded within an impressive mountainous and lake panorama. The townscape is not without merit either – the covered, medieval Chapel Bridge , complete with gable paintings is one of the oldest wooden bridges in Europe and one of the city’s iconic attraction. Historic houses decorated with frescoes line the picturesque town squares, with historic churches overlooking the old towns. Enjoy a stroll along the Museggmauer , the old city walls which have been preserved in its original state apart from one of its towers.

Switzerland is one of the pioneers of chocolate, with a long-established and innovative industry. Be introduced to this delightful Swiss tradition with a private 90min chocolatier workshop , with an exclusive tasting followed by a session with professionals to guide you through the world of cocoa and share their knowledge of the craft and quality ingredients natural ingredients to create your very own chocolate bar.

Lucerne is the ideal starting point for many excursions to the highlights of central Switzerland. Today, make a trip up to one of its regional mountains – Pilatus or Rigi using your Swiss Travel Pass .

Mount Pilatus is the destination made of legends – burial ground of its namesake Roman governor, a dragon rock which fell from the sky, and more! It’s also one of the most beautiful, with views of 73 alpine peaks on a clear day. Visitors will be delighted by the exciting options up and down the mountain – gondola lift, aerial cable car and one of the world’s steepest rack-railroad, combinable with a paddle steamer back to Lucerne.

Mount Rigi , also known as the Queen of Mountains, has a panoramic view of the highest Alpine peaks and a varied range of leisure activities in a majestic setting where three lakes meet. It was a famous destination for travellers across Europe in the 18 th century, including royalty and celebrities. The Vitznau-Rigi railway was Europe’s first mountain Railway, and today, the peak of Rigi Kulm can be accessed by modern cogwheel trains or cable car, combinable with a scenic ferry ride back to Lucerne.

A luggage transfer service will be arranged for your luggage to be delivered to your next hotel, as you enjoy your journey by train to Andermatt (from 1hr 48min, with 1 connection).

Depending on your schedule and preferences, we can arrange a private tour to explore the historic military bunkers deep in the mountains of central Switzerland, or a scenic drive to the panoramic viewpoints along the legendary Gotthard Pass , or a gourmet lunch at a Michelin-starred restaurant high up in the mountains above Andermatt with spectacular views.

In the afternoon, board the ‘world’s slowest express train’ – the Glacier Express . Featuring panoramic windows that extends to the roof of the train, travellers are guaranteed unobstructed views of the spectacular landscape to car-free Zermatt (3hr 2min), where you will be transferred to your hotel by electric cart or horse carriage, depending on your hotel.

Note: Many hotels in Zermatt are closed during the shoulder seasons (Apr – mid Jun, mid Sep – mid Dec), so please speak to our Travel Consultants on other options.

Make an excursion on the Gornergrat Bahn , which was the world’s first fully electrified cog railway. Ascend to the summit at 3,089m, on a 33min ride over dramatic bridges, through tunnels, across forests of larch and Swiss stone pine, and past rocky ravines and mountain lakes. The reward is a spectacular panorama of 29 peaks above 4,000m, including the iconic Matterhorn, the Monte Rosa massif with Switzerland’s highest peak, Dufourspitze. The summit is home to Kulmhotel Gornergrat , one of Europe’s highest hotel which houses an astronomical observatory – stargazing experiences can be arranged here on selected evenings.

Enjoy the rest of the day to explore Zermatt Old Village , with more than 30 buildings constructed in the traditional style of barns and stores of the Upper Valais region. Alternatively, if time permits, you could take another day trip up to the mountains around Zermatt, such as the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise , or the funicular up to the Sunnegga platform for amazing views of the Matterhorn.

A luggage transfer service will be arranged for your luggage to be delivered to your next hotel, as you enjoy your journey by train to Montreux (from 2hr 34min, with 1 connection).

Enjoy the day at leisure to explore Montreux. The Montreux Riviera offers a postcard landscape of Lake Geneva, the mountains and vineyards, with a unique microclimate that gives it a Mediterranean flair that has attracted many artists and writers who have immortalized Montreux in their works. Aside from hosting the Montreux Jazz Festival every summer, the region also boasts a pretty lakeside promenade ideal for strolls, and museums like Chaplin’s World and Chillon Castle that is worth a day of self-exploration.

Continue onwards to Lausanne by train (from 21min, direct train), and check-in to your hotel.

Meet your private guide in the morning for a walking tour of Lausanne. Lausanne is known as the Olympic capital, with the International Olympic Committee based here since 1914, and is also home to the inspiration Olympic Museum . It’s a dynamic commericial city with a picturesque setting on three hills overlooking Lake Geneva, and its attractive old town dominated by the impressive Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral . After exploring the narrow alleyways lined with cafes and boutiques, head down to waterfront Ouchy with its restaurants.

Meet your private driver-guide for a half-day tour to the UNESCO World Heritage Lavaux wine region , with boutique wine estates from the middle ages dotting a landscape of terraced vineyards. Enjoy an exceptional tasting of speciality Swiss wines accompanied with a platter of cheese and chocolates at 2 wineries, followed by lunch overlooking Lake Geneva and the vineyards.

A luggage transfer service will be arranged for your luggage to be delivered to your next hotel, as you enjoy your journey by train to Bern (from 1hr 7min, direct).

Meet your local guide for a private walking tour of Bern . Not many cities have managed to retain their historic features quite as successfully as Bern , the capital of Switzerland, with a medieval atmosphere of ancient towers, fountains, sandstone facades and narrow streets, well-deserving of its UNESCO World Heritage status. Explore the city at your leisure, strolling through its ‘ Lauben ’, which is the longest sheltered shopping arcades in Europe housing boutiques and street cafes. Be sure to enjoy the best views of the old town from the Rose Garden above the Bear Park and the platform of the cathedral tower. Art and architecture lovers should check out Zentrum Paul Klee , featuring the works for the beloved artist in a modern wave-like structure.

Next, take the train to Interlaken (from 52min, direct), where you will check-in to your next hotel.

We recommend an early departure up to Jungfraujoch , or the Top of Europe, easily the highlight of any visit to Switzerland. The Jungfrau railways have been making its journey to Europe’s highest altitude railway station in the heart of the Jungfrau-Aletsch UNESCO heritage site, including a tunnel through the mountain that emerges at the summit to a world of ice, snow and rocks, with an awe-inspiring view to the Aletsch Glacier .

En route, we recommend making stops, such as the pretty village Grindelwald , the starting point for various alpine hikes, as well as some adrenaline pumping activities such as the First Cliff Wall by Tissot , First Flyer zipline down the mountain. Visitors are also often left in awe by Lauterbrunnen Valley , a colourful alpine valley with small villages between towering rock faces lined by impressive waterfalls. Don’t miss the unique Trummelbach Falls which has carved a thundering  cascade behind the mighty rock surface of the Black Monk mountain.

Today is a free day to explore the region. Nestled between 2 lakes and facing three mighty mountains – Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau, Interlaken is well-positioned for countless excursions. There are over 45 mountain railways, cable cars, chair lifts and ski lifts lead to a dense network of hiking trails and well-known mountain peaks, such as Schilthorn , which was made famous by the James Bond film ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’, Schynige Platte , and Harder Kulm . Excursion ships, including historic paddle steamers, ply the waters of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz , with stops at idyllic towns and ancient castles.

A luggage transfer service will be arranged for your luggage to be delivered to your next hotel, as you enjoy your journey by train to Zurich (from 1hr 58min, 1 change).

Enjoy an eco-friendly eTukTuk half-day city tour to the most famous sights and squares in Zurich. On this novel way of zipping around the narrow streets of the old town, your experienced guide will share insider stories about this vibrant city, with a flexible itinerary according to your interests.

In the late afternoon, meet your guide on a Zurich West Food Tour . This culinary adventure is perfect for  food connoisseurs to explore this trendy district and experience the restaurants popular with the locals. Your guide will share the story behind the city´s ‘culinary revolution´ and the transformation of Zurich-West from an industrial area to a cultural hotspot, while sampling various local delicacies.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Zurich airport (approx. 12km, 15min) for your onward journey.

Hotels & Tour Price

Indicative cost per person.

Low Season: November – March Mid Season: April – May, September – October High Season: June – August Art Deco Hotel Montana • Backstage Hotel • Chateau d’Ouchy • Hotel Royal St Georges Interlaken MGallery • Markgasse Hotel Zurich

Art Deco Hotel Montana (Double Room Lake View)

The hotel enjoys an elevated position that is accessed by one of the world’s shortest funicular rides, with Art Deco rooms offering spectacular views of Lake Lucerne, the city of Lucerne and the Louis Bar and Hemingway Rum Lounge are known for their lifestyle events. (Renovated: 2009; Rooms: 61)

Backstage Hotel (Deluxe Matterhorn Double Room)

Created by local architect Heinz Julen, this hotel has a modern design element incorporating wood and metal elements that is all made by hand in his studio. Guests can choose between the unique split-level glass cube lofts or the deluxe rooms in a more typical hotel configuration. There is also a cinema, theatre, bar, nightclub and art gallery. (Opened: 2010; Rooms: 19)

Chateau d’Ouchy (Superior Room Lake View)

Nestled on the banks of Lake Geneva with magnificent views across the water, this is a striking neo-gothic castle reconstructed in the late 1800s into a hotel. A recent renovation has sensitively brought this gem back to life which now provides 50 delightfully rooms, a superb restaurant, an inviting wellness area with a hamman and sauna and its own boat for lake excursions. (Renovated: 2008; Rooms: 50)

Hotel Royal St Georges Interlaken MGallery (Modern Room with Balcony)

An elegant hotel from 1908 in the heart of Interlaken, set against the panoramic backdrop of the Harder Kulm Mountain. Guests can marvel at the historic elements from its grand façade, impressive staircase in the lobby and Art Nouveau interiors, while rooms have been updated with modern comforts. (Opened: 2011; Rooms: 98)

Markgasse Hotel Zurich

This 4-star boutique hotel lies at the heart of the traffic-free old town, with 39 individually designed rooms and suites. Part of the Historic Hotels of Europe, it is today a listed building with stylish modern furnishings. Cosmopolitan cuisine is the focus at the Balthos restaurant & bar and Delish Take-Out and there is free use of a hamam and wellness centre within walking distance. (Opened: 2015; Rooms: 39)

Indicative cost per group

Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern • Mont Cervin Palace • Beau Rivage Palace • Victoria Jungfrau • Baur Au Luc

Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern

Close to the lakeshore promenade with sweeping views of Lake Lucerne, this majestic family-owned hotel has modern rooms that are themed with graphics honouring famous past guests comprising of artists musicians, politicians, and writers, including Mark Twain and Leo Tolstoy. Many illustrious events have been held here, including the Retro Festival and Lucerne Blues Festival. (Renovated: 2014; Rooms: 101)

Mont Cervin Palace

an institution in Zermatt since 1852, this luxury hotel exudes quaint charm and warm hospitality, right from your pick-up at the train station in a horse-drawn carriage to the traditional but thoughtful service. Rooms are decorated in rustic Alpine to a luxurious contemporary style, with views of the surrounding mountains. There are 3 restaurants including a Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant. (Renovated: 2010; Rooms: 150)

Beau-Rivage Palace

Located in 10 acres of private gardens, this iconic hotel commands breath-taking views across Lake Geneva to the majestic French Alps beyond. Spacious rooms retain a classy, elegant look while fully equipped with the latest technological features. There are four restaurants on site offering an array of cuisines, including 2-star Michelin Anne-Sophie Pic. (Renovated: 2021; Rooms: 168)

Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

Opened in 1865, the hotel enjoys a privileged and picturesque location with views to the eternally snow-capped Jungfrau. Almost half of its 224 rooms are suites, combining the style and sophistication of yesteryear with 21st century modern comforts. The 5,500sqm spa is a highlight, offering a vast range of wellness activities. (Renovated: 2003; Rooms: 224)

Baur Au Luc

A stone's throw from famous shopping street Bahnhofstrasse, this legendary hotel commands a privileged position in its own landscaped park on the lakeshore. With 119 luxuriously appointed and individually decorated rooms and suites, there is an intimate atmosphere of a private home. (Renovated: 2010; Rooms: 119)

COST INCLUDES:

• Accommodation on twin sharing basis in hotels as stated on bed & breakfast basis
• Private airport transfers as described in the itinerary -Zurich Airport to Lucerne Hotel -Zurich Hotel to Zurich Airport
• Private tours and admission fees as per itinerary -2hr Lucerne Walking Tour -90min Chocolate Making & Tasting Experience -2hr Lausanne Walking Tour -Half-day Wine Tasting and Lunch at the Lavaux Wine Region -3hr Bern Walking Tour -2hr Zurich City eTukTuk Tour -3hr Zurich West Food Tour
• 8-day Swiss Travel Pass (2 nd class) -Supplement on Mount Pilatus -Seat Reservation on Glacier Express -Supplement on Gornergrat Express -Supplement on Jungfraujoch Top of Europe -Express Luggage Transfer between hotels (2 pieces of luggage per person)
• Local taxes and service charges.

COST EXCLUDES:

• International airfares
• Meals unless otherwise specified
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses e.g. laundry, bar, spa services

ENQUIRE NOW

Kindly call us at (65) 6219 1359 if you require any immediate assistance.

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GET STARTED WITH YOUR PERSONALISED UNIQUE JOURNEY

Call us at +65 6219 1359 or email us at [email protected] to start planning for a holiday that is completely tailored to your preferences.

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Road trip Switzerland: the Grand Tour of Switzerland

25 July 2019

So what exactly makes a perfect road trip? You need mountains, passes, lakes and a healthy dose of winding roads. Add to this a number of sights to see, a few places to get out and hike, plenty of fine dining and lastly, a refined selection of luxury hotels. Switzerland can offer you all of this in a single route. And if you don’t have time to drive the whole thing, you can easily just explore a part of it.

Road trip – hit all the high points

The Grand Tour of Switzerland spans almost 1,000 miles and takes you around 22 lakes and over five alpine passes, each of which is more than 6,500 feet above sea level. This scenic route includes glaciers, famous mountain roads, palm-lined lakes, rustic mountain villages and luxury hotels.

Ideally, you should plan in nine days to see the entire route, which runs the length and breadth of Switzerland. But in case that would be too much, we’ve put together two other itineraries which take only five days or just a long weekend. To make your tour as grand as possible, we suggest the BMW 8 Series Coupe.

Click here to go directly to the routes

• Nine-day trip: the classic Grand Tour of Switzerland

Five-day trip: start and end in Lucerne

Three-day trip: from zurich to lugano and back, grand tour of switzerland: the classic route.

If road trips are your idea of a dream vacation, this 1,000-mile route through Switzerland is hard to beat. Travel along winding mountain roads to reach famous alpine passes like the Gotthard Pass and marvel at the 22 lakes and 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites along the way.

Day 1: Zurich to St. Gallen (approx. 90 miles) Highlights: Take in Europe’s largest waterfall and the picturesque town of Stein am Rhein as you make your way to St. Gallen. You won’t need a map because all the roads are marked with official signposts. Once you reach your destination, you can explore the charming, car-free old town on foot. For the perfect end to your day, head to the two-star Michelin restaurant  Einstein Gourmet . Spend the night in a luxury hotel: the  Militärkantine . Built in 1911 and renovated in 2014, this hotel offers 21 rooms from which you can enjoy a view of the city, Kreuzbleiche park and the surrounding hills.

Day 2: St. Gallen to Davos (approx. 100 miles) Highlights: Wind your way through the canton of Appenzell, heading first to Marienfeld and then on to Davos in the canton of Graubünden. When you need a break, stop and take a hike through the hilly landscape. We suggest the famous Aescher-Wildkirchli hut or the Tectonic Arena Sardona. After you’ve worked up an appetite, spend a delicious evening at the one-star Michelin restaurant  Glow by Armin Amrein . Spend the night in a luxury hotel: Tonight, you can enjoy a view of the Alps when you stay at the  Ameron Swiss Mountain Resort . This luxury hotel boasts its own art collection (➜  How to become an art collector ) with almost 1,000 works on display. Afterwards, you can spend some time in the 9,000-square foot spa to relax and recharge.

Day 3: Davos to Lugano (approx. 180 miles) Highlights: The drive through the Engadin to the Swiss city of palm trees on Lake Lugano is one of the most glorious sections of the tour. Explore the fairytale village of Guarda, spend some time at the Swiss National Park in Zernez, hike Muottas Muragl, and dine in style in one of St. Moritz’s four Michelin-starred restaurants. You should still have time for a dip in the mineral springs at Andeer before coming to the San Bernadino Pass. End your day with an exquisite meal and lake-view dining at  Galleria Arté al Lago . Spend the night in a luxury hotel: Villa  Principe Leopoldo on the Collina d’Oro (Golden Hill). This former manor house with its breathtaking views of the lake is now part of the Relais & Chateaux collection of luxury hotels. Day 4: Lugano to Zermatt (approx. 135 miles) Highlights: This stretch of road is perfect for driving enthusiasts. (➜ something else you might like:  Culinary road trip through California ). Following a leisurely stroll along the promenade on Lago Maggiore in Ascona, you can then have lunch at the Michelin-starred  Locanda Orico  in Bellinzona. After your meal, you can visit the city’s three castles, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The highlight of today – both literally and figuratively – is the Tremola, a marvel of old road engineering (with cobblestones!). From Airolo, this historic pass snakes its way up the Gotthard Pass to the Furka Pass. By the way, the Stockalper Palace in Brig or the Ice Pavilion in Saas Fee, which takes you inside the glacier of the same name, is also worth a visit. Spend the night in a luxury hotel:   Cervo Mountain Boutique Hotel . Sip a cocktail on the sundeck as you gaze out onto the Matterhorn at the sustainably designed resort made up of six chalets. Keep in mind that no vehicles are permitted in Zermatt, so you will have to park in the nearby town of Täsch and catch a shuttle train. Day 5: Zermatt to Montreux (approx. 95 miles) Highlights: From Täsch you will follow the Rhône through the canton of Valais as it flows past Sion, Martigny and finally to Montreux. Take your time to fully appreciate the imposing mountainscape surrounding Zermatt, Leuk Castle, Gornergrat, the hot springs at the Leukerbad thermal spa, Lac Souterrain (Europe’s largest subterranean lake) or panoramic views from the Kuklos viewing point. Spend the night in a luxury hotel:   Relais et Château  Grand Hôtel du Lac . On the shores of Lake Geneva, the five-star superior hotel done in the art nouveau style. If you’re hungry, there are four one-star Michelin restaurants nearby.

Day 6: Montreux to Geneva (approx. 60 miles) Highlights: As you leave Montreaux, you will drive through the Lavaux vineyard terraces on your way to Geneva via Lausanne. Take a quick tour to get to know the area a little better. We recommend visiting the vineyard terraces at the top of broad Lake Geneva – they are part of the UNESCO cultural landscape. Gourmets will enjoy a delightful meal at the Auberge du Lion d’Or in Cologny. Spend the night in a luxury hotel:  at the 100-acre Jiva Hill Resort . Strictly speaking, the resort is just on the other side of the French border – but we’re in road trip mode, after all.

Day 7: Geneva to Gstaad (approx. 100 miles) Highlights: Stop in Fribourg with its lovely bridges for a culinary adventure at  Des Trois Tours and then continue through the land of Gruyères on towards Gstaad. Don’t miss the picturesque city of Neuchâtel, Lake Bienne, St. Peter’s Island, the Cailler chocolate factory, Le Moléson overlook point and Lake Lauenen. For dinner, you can’t go wrong with the Michelin-starred restaurant  Sommet . Spend the night in a luxury hotel:  at  The Cambrian Hotel i n Adelboden. This sleek and stylish hotel featuring an infinity pool looking out onto the alps is a real jewel.

Day 8: Gstaad to Lucerne (approx. 195 miles) Highlights:  To travel to Lucerne, you will go through Interlaken, Berne, the Emmental, Entlebuch and around Lake Lucerne. Along the way you will encounter Lake Brienz, Lake Thun, get a view of Eiger, Mönch und Jungfrau, visit old town Berne and the Marzilibad swimming pool or Hallwyl Castle. Spend the night in a luxury hotel:  The  Bürgenstock Resort is just a short drive away from the city. Your reward at the end of the day is lounging around one of the most impressive pools in Switzerland with a view of Lake Lucerne.

Day 9: Lucerne to Zurich (approx. 90 miles) Highlights: After driving along Lake Lucerne, past Altdorf and Schwyz, you will start heading back to Zurich. End your trip with one last memorable meal at the  Prisma restaurant in the dreamy Park Hotel Vitznau, which of course has breathtaking views of the lake. Spend the night in a luxury hotel:  at the foot of the Uetliberg in Zurich at  Atlantis by Giardino . You can spend the last evening of your road trip luxuriating in this green oasis before making your way back home.

Maximum sightseeing in a minimal amount of days: This Grand Tour of Switzerland road trip (➜ The 70 best drivetunes for your ride) lets you experience the country’s highlights in just five days – clear mountain lakes set among vast mountainscapes, alpine roads, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, beautiful shoreline drives and gourmet dining. Day 1: Lucerne to Andermatt (approx. 95 miles) Highlights: Drive along the shore and through alpine passes along Lake Lucerne on your way to the mountain village of Andermatt – just follow the official Grand Tour signs. The peak of your day will be the trio of passes with their hairpin bends being a particular attraction – Furka Pass, Susten Pass and Grimsel Pass. For some fine dining options, try Michelin-starred  Focus in Vitznau or  RICO’S in Küssnacht. Spend the night in a luxury hotel:   The Chedi Andermatt at 4,747 feet above sea level. This five-star hotel combines alpine chic with Asian flair – and for a true luxury getaway, the hotel can provide you with your own personal ski butler.

Day 2: Andermatt to Montreux (approx. 115 miles) Highlights: Today, you will be driving through the wine country of the Rhône Valley through Sion and Martigny to Montreux. Take some time to explore Leuk Castle, the hot springs at Leukerbad, Lac Souterrain (Europe’s largest underground lake) or the Trient Gorge. Spend the night in a luxury hotel:   at the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace . One of the best features of this jewel of the Belle Époque is the view of Lake Geneva. Day 3: Montreux to Neuchâtel (approx. 95 miles) Highlights: Travel on to Lausanne and then to Col du Marchairuz, passing by the terraced vineyards of Lavaux on Lake Neuchâtel. Take the time to explore some amazing timepieces in La Chaux-de-Fonds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is famous for watchmaking. Visit the watch museum,  Musée International de l'Horlogerie , which is home to over 4,500 time-keeping devices, 2,700 of which are on display. Spend the night in a luxury hotel:  The  Beau Rivage Hotel is located on the Esplanade du Mont-Blanc lake promenade. You can sit back and talk about your favorite parts of the day while gazing out at the lake and the Bernese Alps.

Day 4: Neuchatel to Gstaad/Saanen (approx. 125 miles) Highlights: Start driving up into the Jura mountains, passing through Broc and Gruyère to Gstaad Saanen. Stop in Fribourg with its lovely bridges for a culinary adventure at  Des Trois Tours . Other places worth seeing include Lake Bienne, St. Peter’s Island, Le Moléson overlook point and Lake Lauenen. For dinner, you can’t go wrong with Michelin-starred  MEGU or  Chesery . Spend the night in a luxury hotel:  Stay at the mountain hideaway  The Alpina Gstaad to recharge for your drive back to Lucerne at the luxurious Six Senses Spa. Day 5: Gstaad/Saanen to Lucerne (approx. 150 miles) Highlights: Interlaken, Berne and the Emmental all beckon to you for a visit on your trip back to Lake Lucerne. We would also recommend you visit Lake Brienz, Lake Thun, the old town of Berne or Castle Hallwyl (and maybe take a dip in the cool Aare River). Spend the night in a luxury hotel:  at the  Bürgenstock Resort with a view of Lake Lucerne. Located a little outside of the city, this luxury hotel offers you one of Switzerland’s most beautiful pools to relax in on your last night.

See all the best places to visit in Switzerland – mountain lakes, shoreline drives, alpine passes and Michelin-starred restaurants – over a long weekend doing the Grand Tour of Switzerland. It’s the ideal trip for driving aficionados and lovers of winding roads.

Day 1: Zurich to St. Moritz (approx. 170 miles) Highlights: After having lunch at  The Restaurant in the Dolder Grand (this luxury castle hotel alone is worth the trip up the Zurich Adlisberg), head towards Appenzell, Bad Ragaz, Davos and the Fluela Pass into the Engadin. There’s no need to worry about maps here either – the entire route is marked with official signs. Your Switzerland itinerary includes the Ebenalp and the famous Aescher-Wildkirchli mountain guesthouse, the seven Churfirsten, Werdenberg Castle, Heidi’s house in Maienfeld, the Tectonic Arena Sardona and the Ruinaulta (Rhine Gorge), Salginatobel Bridge, Tarasp Castle in the Lower Engadin and the Bogn Engiadina mineral springs. Spend the night in a luxury hotel:  at  Badrutt’s Palace . For over a century, this iconic luxury hotel has stood majestically on Lake St. Moritz. Michelin-starred  IGNIV by Andreas Caminada (➜  ECKART Award winner) combines the concept of sharing small plates with fine dining.

Day 2: St. Moritz to Lugano (approx. 120 miles) Highlights: This Switzerland tour will take you from the mountain lakes of the Engadin over the San Bernadino Pass to the palm-tree-lined lake of Lugano. One of the most beautiful stopovers is on the Montebello curve. The Rhaetian Railway crosses the street here, as you gaze out over Piz Bernina (13,284 feet), Piz Palü (12,798 feet) and Piz Roseg (12,916 feet). Other things to experience along the way are the Viamala Gorge, a quick dip in the  Andeer mineral springs , the three castles in Bellinzona, the sumptuous Parco Botanico del Gambarogno garden and an evening meal at  Galleria Arté al Lago on Lake Lugano. Spend the night in a luxury hotel:  at the  Grand Hotel Villa Castagnola . Have drinks on the terrace overlooking the lake and reminisce about your day.

Day 3: Lugano to Zurich (approx. 185 miles) Highlights: After a quick stop in Ascona, wind your way up the road to the Tremola Pass, Gotthard Pass and Furka Pass, and go through Lucerne on your way to Zurich. After a full day of mountain passes, sit down to a delicious dinner at  Restaurant Prisma in the stately Park Hotel Vitznau. Spend the night in a luxury hotel:  at the  Dolder Grand high on Adlisberg. Bring your road trip to a delightful conclusion by spending a night in the luxurious castle overlooking Lake Zurich. Enjoy the hotel’s art collection, relaxing spa and Michelin-starred restaurant.

Travel information

You can drive the Grand Tour of Switzerland in either direction, but the Swiss Tourism Federation recommends that you drive it going clockwise. Highways are avoided whenever possible on the Grand Tour, but are sometimes included when it makes sense to do so. The route is marked with official signs.

Photos: Benjamin A. Monn

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12 Day Grand Train Tour Of Switzerland

On these packages you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. We have arranged transportation in most cases and day tours for you to see the destination. Enjoy the time and flexibility to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible. The choice is yours.

This tour is conducted at a medium-fast pace. Some long travel days may be required to complete this itinerary and you will typically spend two nights at each destination, with some one night stays required. This trip includes a mix of sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage.

Take advantage of our 7 day cooling-off period. 

✓ Incredible sightseeing! Tour Switzerland by world-famous rail journeys, experience the alpine wonderland of Jungfraujoch – Europe’s highest railway station, explore cosmopolitan cities like Zurich and charming Swiss villages and resort destinations like Lucerne, Lugano, St. Moritz, Montreux and Interlaken  ✓ Enjoy the flexibility of independent travel with all arrangements made for you ✓ 11 nights in handpicked, quality 3-star accommodation  ✓ Breakfast daily ✓ World-famous scenic train journeys through the Swiss Alps, including the spectacular Golden Pass Express, Gotthard Panorama, Glacier Express, Bernina Express ✓ Dedicated rail ticket in 2nd or 1st class, as per the itinerary, including seat reservation on all scenic trains ✓ Self-guided excursion to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station ✓ Entry to Lindt Home of Chocolate ✓ Panoramic cruise on Yacht MS Saphir in Lucerne  ✓ Guest cards in Zurich, Lucerne, Lugano, Montreux, and Interlaken, providing free local transport and discounted shopping opportunities 

✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.

Explore this dreamy part of the world at your own pace. Start with sophisticated Zurich and then see Switzerland the best way, on world-famous scenic train journeys through the Swiss Alps. Discover idyllic alpine landscapes, snow-capped peaks, charming mountain villages and luxury resort destinations.

Day 1 Zurich

Grüezi! Welcome to Switzerland. After your arrival at the airport, make your own way to the hotel and enjoy your first day at leisure. As a lakeside "metropolis of experiences", with a magnificent view of the snow‐capped Alps on the horizon, Zurich offers a unique mixture of attractions.

Start with the beauty of the city’s natural surroundings. If you feel like getting a better view, take the train to the summit of Uetliberg Mountain. From the station, it’s a short walk to the peak and the scenery is incredible over Zurich, the lake and the Alps. Or if you’re in the Old Town and fancy a vantage point, you can walk up Lindenhof Hill for sweeping views over the city.  

Check in: Passengers will be arriving at various times throughout the day. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are generally no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in, however this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.

Day 2 Zurich

Wake up to a delicious Swiss breakfast, then take a stroll along the famous Bahnhofstrasse — Zurich's shopping paradise. A quick detour will lead you to the narrower cobbled streets of Zurich's Old Town and its smaller, independent artisan shops. Use your included 24-hour Zurich Card for local transport and various discounts across the city. Be sure to not miss the picturesque waterfront promenades!

Day 3 Zurich Lucerne

After breakfast, transfer by rail to Lucerne in Central Switzerland, situated in an enviable location surrounded by a stunning lake and mountain panorama. The historic town of Lucerne attracts visitors globally with its well-preserved old town, countless shops and restaurants. A visit to Chapel Bridge, which has stood the test of time as a traditional crossing for locals, is one of many highlights that are sure to impress. 

Please note that the maximum luggage allowance is 23 kg due to train compartment restrictions.

Day 4 Lucerne Flüelen Gotthard Panorama Express Lugano

This morning, the Gotthard Panorama Express takes you from the heart of Switzerland, with a journey through Lake Lucerne on a paddle steamer boat.  From Flüelen, travel by first-class panoramic train to Lugano, a picturesque lakeside town in Switzerland’s Italian-speaking Ticino region.

Use the provided guest card to take full advantage of local transport and explore nearby villages, such as the pretty village of Morcote.

Day 5 Lugano Tirano Bernina Express St. Moritz

Board the Bernina Express bus after breakfast, and enjoy a scenic drive to Italy-based Tirano where you join the Bernina Express panoramic train across the border back to Switzerland. You will travel over circular viaducts and pass through winding tunnels, with highlights including the Brusio Circular Viaduct and a photo stop at Alp Grüm. 

Arrive in St. Moritz, a luxury alpine resort town in Switzerland’s Engadin valley, and spend the rest of the day at leisure. This luxury alpine resort town, a favourite for celebrities and royals, is surely one of the world’s most famous winter sports resorts. This was the first mountain village in the country to have a ski school, a tram and electric lighting. The Winter Olympics have been held here twice. It’s a renowned ski destination.

Day 6 St. Moritz

A full day awaits to explore St. Moritz, where guests from all over the world appreciate the modern Alpine lifestyle. Take advantage of your included guest card to visit the local area. We suggest the nearby mountains of Muottas Murgal or Diavolezza for incredible views that are not to be missed. Various sights including the leaning tower, a remnant of the Mauritius Church from around 1500, or the Segantini Museum, offer unique insight into the city’s fascinating history. 

Day 7 St. Moritz Glacier Express Zermatt

Ride the world‐famous Glacier Express to Zermatt today, a gorgeous village near the Italian border. Be enthralled by Switzerland’s spectacular scenery, thanks to oversized, panoramic windows that make for an unforgettable experience. Along the deep Rhone valley, the Glacier Express travels through an incredibly fascinating part of the Alps. The route famously takes you through 91 tunnels and 291 bridges, offering unrivalled views. Make sure to have your camera handy! Optionally, you may wish to dine at your seat with a delicious 3-course meal served on your table (additional charges apply). 

Day 8 Zermatt

Zermatt lies at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn peak. The town's touristic development is closely linked to what is arguably the world's most famous mountain. This car‐free resort offers guests an abundance of activities such as visits to the local mountains of Gornergrat or the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. It is also home to the highest open-air cog railway in Europe. 

Day 9 Zermatt Montreux

Continue by train to Montreux, nestled between steep hills and the lakeside of Lake Geneva. The town's promenade is lined with flowers, sculptures, Mediterranean trees and grand Belle Époque buildings. Nearby attractions include the medieval island castle, Chateau de Chillon and the vineyards of the Lavaux region.

Day 10 Montreux GoldenPass Express Wilderswil

Your journey continues by train on the GoldenPass Express through the wild and romantic Pays d'Enhaut, complete with scenic villages and crystal-clear lakes at every corner. 

Interlaken is a laidback resort town, presided over by three mighty mountains, Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. It makes a great base from which to explore the Bernese Oberland. Unprecedented views of the Swiss Alps give an impression of what is to come during your stay.

Höheweg, the main promenade of Interlaken, is lovely for a stroll. It runs from Lake Brienz to Lake Thun, with flower gardens and parks on one side allowing for a view of the Bernese Alps. On the other side you’ll find high-end hotels, boutiques, cafes and the casino.

Day 11 Wilderswil Jungfraujoch Wilderswil

Your penultimate day in Switzerland packs another highlight! This morning you will embark on a self-guided excursion to the Jungfraujoch, also known as the highest railway station in Europe. You may choose to go via Grindelwald Terminal on the technical marvel that is Eiger Express cable car, or take the traditional route by train from Grindelwald via Kleine Scheidegg. Highlights include the world’s highest Lindt Chocolate Shop and the Ice Palace with its impressive ice sculptures.

Day 12 Wilderswil Zurich

Today marks the end of your magnificent and unforgettable tour through Switzerland. We hope you have thoroughly enjoyed your inspiring trip.

Your train ticket includes the rail transfer from Wilderswil to Zurich airport, allowing you the flexibility to select a suitable connection for your departure flight. Trains via Lucerne typically depart every hour. 

Note: If you wish to conclude your journey at a Swiss destination other than Zurich, we can make arrangements for an extra fee. Please reach out to us to inquire about a personalized quotation.

What's Included

• Incredible sightseeing! Tour Switzerland by world-famous rail journeys, experience the alpine wonderland of Jungfraujoch – Europe’s highest railway station, explore cosmopolitan cities like Zurich and charming Swiss villages and resort destinations like Lucerne, Lugano, St. Moritz, Montreux and Interlaken
• Enjoy the flexibility of independent travel with all arrangements made for you
• 11 nights in handpicked, quality 3-star accommodation
• Breakfast daily
• World-famous scenic train journeys through the Swiss Alps, including the spectacular Golden Pass Express, Gotthard Panorama, Glacier Express, Bernina Express
• Dedicated rail ticket in 2nd or 1st class, as per the itinerary, including seat reservation on all scenic trains
• Self-guided excursion to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station
• Entry to Lindt Home of Chocolate
• Panoramic cruise on Yacht MS Saphir in Lucerne 
• Guest cards in Zurich, Lucerne, Lugano, Montreux, and Interlaken, providing free local transport and discounted shopping opportunities

Tour Highlights

• Zurich – Enjoy magnificent views of the snow-capped Alps in this ‘Metropolis of Experiences’ 
• Lucerne – Visit famous Chapel Bridge and board the Gotthard Panorama Express including a paddle steamer boat experience on picturesque Lake Lucerne 
• Lugano – Board the Bernina Express including bus and panoramic train rides across circular viaducts and winding tunnels 
• St. Moritz – Use your included guest card to explore this picturesque village, then take the world-famous Glacier Express through valleys and the Alps
• Zermatt – Marvel at the Matterhorn, one of the world’s most famous mountains, and stroll through this car-free resort town with an abundance of activities at your leisure
• Montreux – Walk the town’s promenade and admire grand Belle Epoque buildings, and perhaps consider a visit to nearby Chillon castle or the vineyards of the Lavaux region
• Wilderswil/Interlaken – On your way stop at the famous Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station, and marvel at impressive ice sculptures 

Rail Services & Upgrades

1st Class Rail Select this supplement if you would like to upgrade your itinerary to 1st class rail on all sectors, including seat reservation on the scenic trains. Upgrade for $413 per person.  First Class has dedicated carriages offering a higher level of comfort with spacious seats and less passengers per carriage.  Some trains will have larger windows in First Class.

Golden Pass Prestige Class + 1st class rail supplement  The Prestige class is characterised by its very comfortable, heated seats which enable the passenger to face in the direction of travel. The Prestige area is raised by 40 centimetres to allow the passengers to be fully immersed in the landscape. The passenger feels like sitting in the landscape. Upgrade for $515 per person, which also includes 1st class rail as per the itinerary. 

Glacier Express 3-Course Lunch  As you gaze out at the stunning alpine panorama, enjoy a freshly prepared 3-course meal on board and served at your seat. Upgrade for $102 per person. 

Glacier Express Excellence Class + 1st class rail supplement  A panoramic trip through the Swiss Alps aboard the Glacier Express is now even more spectacular with guaranteed window seats and panoramic views. The new Excellence Class sets standards that are as high as the mountain peaks along the legendary route. Along the way you will be served a refined regional 5-course menu with accompanying wines. For an aperitif, some delicious cocktail or to exchange with fellow travellers the Glacier Bar is the perfect place to visit. Thanks to the compass on the ceiling none of the many turns will be missed.

During the entire journey, you will be taken care of by a concierge. Be it with culinary delights, answers to personal concerns or exciting anecdotes and information about nature, culture and people along the journey. Upgrade for $1,394 per person, which also includes 1st class rail as per the itinerary. 

Complementary Services on Excellence Class

• Lounge seating with guaranteed window seat
• Exclusive access to the Glacier Bar
• Tablet with Bord Infotainment
• Concierge as host in the Excellence Class
• Welcome-Desk & personal check-in on the platform
• Luggage transport in dedicated lockable sections aboard
• Coffee, juice, soft drinks
• Starter plate with Champagne
• Regional 5-course menu incl. wine accompaniment
• Tea Time in the afternoon with goodies
• Snacks throughout the day available

Ultimate Rail Upgrade - Golden Pass Prestige Class + Glacier Express Excellence Class + 1st class supplement Our Ultimate Rail Upgrade bundle offers an unparalleled experience, combining the luxurious inclusions of the Golden Pass Prestige Class and the Glacier Express Excellence Class, along with 1st class tickets for all other sectors of your journey. Upgrade for $1,496 per person, which also includes 1st class rail as per the itinerary. 

As this service is on request, this adjustment will be reflected in your confirmation invoice.

Payment Terms

Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person. Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options. Instalment Schedule:

• At the time of booking pay a $99.00 deposit per person.
• Pay a 1st installment of $540.00 per person within 28 days.
• Pay a 2nd installment of $1,080.00 per person within 90 days.
• You will then be invoiced for final payment 120 days prior to departure.

Flight Information & Booking Options

This is a land only package.

This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination. 

The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:

• Your booking is confirmed
• Your departure date is within 11 months
• You  have completed your passenger detail form

Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances. 

Visa & Passport

It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here .

Important Information

Fitness Requirements While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.

As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.

This particular tour is categorized as a”3”

Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.

Tipping A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.

Accommodation The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however, any changes are beyond our control.

Single Supplement Single supplement is $1,425.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.

Triple Share Not available.

Travel Insurance Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.

We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE .

Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.

Children Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.

Tour Style To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveler has appropriate expectations before they start their travels: 

• Independent - On these packages you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. We have arranged transportation in most cases and day tours for you to see the destination. Enjoy the time and flexibility to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible.

Luggage Requirements Please note that the maximum luggage allowance is 23 kg due to train compartment restrictions.

Health & Mobility Requirements

All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.

Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.

It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.

Pre and Post-Tour Accommodation & Extra Services

You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:

Pre Tour Accommodation

• $445.00 per room, per night for double and twin share
• $597.00 per room, per night for solo travellers

Post Tour Accommodation

Please select the number of extra nights required in the 'Additional Nights Accommodation' field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.

• International airfares
• Airport Transfer
• Travel insurance (compulsory)
• Local taxes such as hotel city taxes
• Optional activities
• Personal expenses
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Departure Dates for 12 Day Grand Train Tour Of Switzerland

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Grand Train Tour Of Switzerland: A Detailed Guide

Dreaming of exploring Switzerland by train? So am I, which is precisely why I prepared this detailed guide to the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland!

One travel pass gives you access to all the country’s trains, including those panoramic trains with massive windows that pass through surreally beautiful sceneries. The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is a bucket-list travel experience that covers 1,280 kilometers of the country on an epic 11-day journey, and here’s everything else you need to know about it!

Table of Contents

8 Sections of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is divided into eight sections, according to the specific routes that are operated by panoramic trains. We’ll tell you about all the different sections and trains right here, so you can create your own personal Grand Train Tour of the Alpine country!

And if you want to check out the map before you start, I have added it below for easy reference.

Zürich – Luzern – Interlaken

Zürich is usually the starting point for traveling through the country because it’s got the largest and busiest international airport in Switzerland. Most travelers who fly to the country arrive at this airport, so it makes perfect sense to begin your journey in this beautiful city.

The first leg of the journey takes you to three cities, and four lakes, and treats you to some fantastic scenery during the train journey. At Luzern, you board a panoramic train to Interlaken, and that ride is easily the highlight of this entire journey. The Luzern-Interlaken express train passes through beautiful mountain landscapes, featuring waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and mesmerizing scenery before it arrives at Interlaken, the beautiful town nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

Distance: 131 kilometers

Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Interlaken – Zweisimmen – Montreux

The second section of the train journey through Switzerland takes you from the beautiful town of Interlaken to Zweisimmen, where you can ride trains on the panoramic GoldenPass line to Montreux. The train passes next to castles, through pastures, and hills, for a wonderfully scenic journey full of marvelous sights.

You can choose to ride one of the two Golden Pass trains – the Panoramic or the Belle Epoque. The Panoramic train is the better option if you want to admire the scenery during the ride because it features huge windows, with windows on the roof in 1st class. The Belle Epoque train is decorated in Belle Epoque style and it feels like traveling back in time, and it’s great for travelers who want to discover a unique way to travel in Switzerland.

Distance: 120 kilometers

Time: 3 hours 45 minutes

Montreux – Visp – Zermatt

When you’re done exploring the beautiful city on the shore of Lake Geneva, board a train to Visp. The train journey through southern Switzerland passes through several valleys, and it is incredibly scenic. Visp is one of the sunniest places in Switzerland, and after a quick exploration of the town, you can board the train to Zermatt.

The car-free village of Zermatt is a popular ski resort, but also just a magical Swiss destination overall. During the train ride, you’re treated to beautiful views of the Rhone River valley along the way, and when you can see the iconic Matterhorn, you’ll know that you’re getting pretty close to Zermatt.

The village is also popular among mountain climbers who wish to conquer this peak, and there’s even a museum in town dedicated to ascents on the Matterhorn.

Distance: 148 kilometers

Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Zermatt – St. Moritz

The slowest express train in Switzerland takes you from the beautiful car-free village of Zermatt to cosmopolitan St. Moritz. You’ll ride the Glacier Express , a panoramic train that crosses over 291 bridges and passes through 91 tunnels.

The entire journey is around 8 hours long, and it’s by far the longest train journey of the entire Grand Train Tour of Switzerland. Time flies on the train if you keep your eyes peeled on the magical scenery, making the long journey easily enjoyable.

Chur is an optional stop along this route. The beautiful town is about halfway between Zermatt and St. Moritz, and it’s worth checking out if you have enough time in Switzerland.

Distance: 291 kilometers

Time: 7 hours 45 minutes

St. Moritz – Tirano – Lugano

From the glacial landscapes of St. Moritz to palm trees in Lugano – the Bernina Express panoramic train takes passengers on a ride through southern Switzerland and northern Italy, in an epic 7-hour journey.

The panoramic train takes you from St. Moritz to Tirano in Italy, allowing you to discover some truly magical landscapes along the way. UNESCO World Heritage Sites, mountain passes, tall peaks, and mesmerizing lakes are just some of the highlights you’ll get to see during the journey.

At Tirano, you can board the Bernina Express Bus towards Lugano via Como. Situated on the shore of Lake Lugano, the beautiful city offers a plethora of fun and exciting things to do to its visitors, from decadent restaurants to fabulous hiking trails.

Distance: 154 kilometers

Time: 6 hours 45 minutes

Lugano – Bellinzona – Flüelen – Luzern

The Lugano-Luzern section of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is the main reason why you should plan to do this tour in the summer months if you want to experience all the highlights of the journey. The Gotthard Panorama Express operates only between April and October, and it’s another panoramic train that offers stunning views during the journey.

The panoramic train will take you from Lugano to Flüelen, where you board a boat that transports you across Lake Lucerne to the city. It’s an amazing experience and without a doubt one of the highlights of the entire tour, so it’s worth it to plan your trip around it.

Treno Gottardo is an alternative for travelers who can’t make the trip between April and October. It transports passengers between Lugano and Lucerne on the Gotthard route, and the train is in operation year-round. This train is also two hours quicker than the panoramic route, but the views along the way aren’t quite as amazing.

Distance: 182 kilometers

Time: 5 hours 30 minutes

Luzern – St. Gallen

Board the Voralpen Express train from Luzern to St. Gallen to experience one of the most beautiful railway lines in Switzerland. During the two-hour train journey, you are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding alpine peaks, the Rapperswil damn and its castle, and the highest railway bridge in the country, the Sitter Viaduct.

And that’s all before you arrive at St. Gallen, the beautiful town near Lake Constance. The attractions in the town include UNESCO World Heritage Sites, an excellent museum, and breathtaking nature in the city’s immediate surroundings.

Distance: 125 kilometers

Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

St. Gallen – Schaffhausen – Zürich

The final leg of this epic journey has travelers returning to Zürich from St. Gallen. The train ride offers travelers a glimpse of maritime Switzerland because the train travels next to a body of water for the majority of the ride. First, you’ll ride along the shore of Lake Constance for about 40 kilometers, and then the train follows the Rhine river downstream.

Schaffhausen is an optional stop along this route and is entirely worth it if you want to see the largest cascades in Europe. The Rhine Falls are absolutely stunning and definitely worth a quick detour on the final leg of your Switzerland tour.

Board the train back to Zürich at Schaffhausen and you can be in the financial metropolis in 30-50 minutes. Use the time you have left in Switzerland to explore the city – walk along Bahnhofstrasse, see Lake Zurich, and climb the Karlsturm tower at Grossmünster for fabulous panoramic views before it’s time to head to the airport.

Length: 133 kilometers

Grand Train Tour Suggested Itineraries

If the idea of traveling by train for more than 1,000 kilometers is a bit overwhelming, consider doing one of the suggested itineraries. These cover certain parts of the Grand Train Tour, so they’re shorter and more affordable than doing the entire journey. Also, you can book pre-arranged packages for each of these itineraries, which will include train tickets, accommodation, meals, and even tickets to select tourist attractions!

Original Tour

The Original Tour allows you to discover most highlights of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland during one week of traveling. Your journey starts in Lucerne and ends in St. Gallen, so it differs from the full-length tour in that it bypasses Zurich entirely.

The cities you will visit during the 8 days of the Original Tour are Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Tirano, Lugano, and St. Gallen, and you get to ride on all the panoramic trains.

Existing packages for this itinerary start at CHF 1280, and they include accommodation with breakfast in all the cities and seat reservations for the panoramic trains.

Duration: 8 days / 7 nights

Classic Tour

The Classic Grand Train Tour of Switzerland is a 7-day itinerary that allows passengers to discover 7 different cities in the country. Your journey begins and ends in Lucerne, and during the week of traveling, you get to discover most highlights of southern Switzerland.

Zurich and St. Gallen aren’t included in this itinerary, but all the other places visited on the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland are. You’ll travel to Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Tirano, Lugano, and back to Lucerne, all the while riding on the country’s iconic panoramic trains.

The prices for pre-arranged Classic Tour packages start at CHF 1140, which includes train travel, seat reservations, accommodation with breakfast, and even a 1st class upgrade on the Gotthard Panorama Express train.

Duration: 7 days / 6 nights

Top Attractions Tour

If you can’t spare the two weeks necessary to complete the full Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, consider doing a shorter version of it. That’s exactly what the Top Attractions Tour itinerary is, which takes you to five different cities in just five days.

Your journey begins in Lucerne and it includes access to two panoramic trains – the Golden Pass train and the Glacier Express. The places visited during this five-day itinerary are Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt, and Chur, so you can experience all the most famous attractions in southern Switzerland.

Packages for this itinerary start at CHF 650, which includes accommodation with breakfast, seat reservations, and public transport to a place of your choosing from Chur.

Duration: 5 days / 4 nights

Glacier & Palm Trees Tour

The Glacier & Palm Trees Tour is the best itinerary for people who just want to ride on the panoramic trains. This four-day adventure includes two of the best panoramic trains in Switzerland – the Bernina Express and the Gotthard Panorama Express.

The itinerary begins with an overnight stay in St. Moritz, the cosmopolitan village known for luxury and glamour. On day two, you ride the Bernina Express train to Tirano and then the Bernina Express bus to Lugano, and enjoy views of beautiful lakes and palm trees.

On day three, passengers will board the Gotthard Panorama Express train to Lucerne, where they will spend the rest of their time in Switzerland. Packages with accommodation, breakfast, and seat reservations for this quick Swiss excursion start at CHF 660.

Duration: 4 days / 3 nights

Stunning Waters Tour

The Stunning Water Tour is a short and affordable itinerary that beings in Zurich. You’re only traveling for three days and two nights, discovering the cities on the shores of Switzerland’s most impressive lakes.

Zurich, Lucerne, and St. Gallen are included in this short itinerary. Packages for this route start at just CHF 300, and they include overnight stays in Zurich and St. Gallen. This itinerary includes a ride on the panoramic Voralpen Express train, which allows you to discover spectacular scenery and UNESCO World Heritage Sites from the comfort of your train seat.

The last day of the journey includes a ride from St. Gallen to Schaffhausen. You’re riding along the shore of Lake Constance for some 40 kilometers, and then you get to tour Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe.

Duration: 3 days / 2 nights

Hidden Treasures Tour

The Hidden Treasures Tour is another short three-day itinerary suitable for budget travelers. The itinerary includes visits to four cities – Interlaken, Lucerne, Domodossola, and Locarno – with overnight stays in Interlaken and Locarno.

On the third and final day of the tour, you get to ride in 1st class on the Gotthard Panorama Express train and enjoy stunning scenic views while traveling back to Lucerne. Packages for this itinerary start at CHF 240, which includes two overnight stays with breakfast, train tickets, and seat reservations.

Winter Magic Tour

The Winter Magic Tour is the perfect train trip through Switzerland for people who want to discover the country in the winter. Rolling hills and turquoise lake waters give way to glaciers, frozen lakes, and snow-capped mountains in this epic 7-day journey through central Switzerland.

The tour explores four towns – Lucerne, Interlaken, Zermatt, and St. Moritz – with multiple overnight stays in the same locations. This allows you to thoroughly explore these beautiful towns and gives you enough time to explore all the mountains you want in the Alps.

The itinerary includes a ride on the Glacier Express train and an optional ride on the Bernina Panorama Winter train. Packages for this itinerary start at CHF 940, which includes overnight stays with breakfast and a seat reservation for the Glacier Express.

The Swiss Rail Pass And Packages

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland can cost you anywhere from a few hundred Swiss francs to a few thousand, depending on the type of ticket/package you purchase.

A Swiss Travel Pass is all you need to be able to travel on the Swiss trains, and the prices start at 232 CHF for a three-day pass. The longer the validity of the pass, the more it’s going to cost. Also, keep in mind that the Swiss Travel Pass only covers the cost of the train rides – accommodation, meals, and tickets to attractions are all coming out of your budget. Read this guide for more info about the Swiss Travel Pass.

That’s precisely why many people choose to book package deals, which include all of the above, as well as train travel. You can purchase a package that covers any of the suggested itineraries, and even the full Grand Train Tour that covers the entire 1280 kilometers of the route.

Additionally, you will need to spend extra money on the seat reservation for the panoramic trains. Reservations are necessary, and they’re usually around 20 CHF per seat, regardless of the class.

Finally, I would encourage you to pay extra for a 1st class travel pass, if you can afford it. The panoramic trains have windows that are either on the roof or curve over the roof in 1st class, for truly spectacular views the entire time. It will bring the train journey experience to a whole new level, and it’s worth the extra money.

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland App

If you’re going to tour Switzerland by train, the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland app is a great travel companion. It contains information on all the legs of the journey, as well as the highlights and top tourist attractions of all the cities and towns that you can visit during the tour.

The travel app also offers coupons that can get you anything from free drinks to first-class upgrades on trains and boats, plus you can collect points for every new place you visit. Travelers are encouraged to visit tourist information offices in each of the cities they visit to redeem unique prizes and collect codes, which they can then use to collect stamps within the app.

The app is free and it costs nothing to install it on your phone, but it has lots of benefits. In addition to all the extra features, this app can track your location and display the nearby attractions in all towns. It’s a great way to ensure you don’t get lost while discovering Switzerland, as well as a detailed journey of your entire trip.

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GRAND TRAIN TOUR OF SWITZERLAND

The grand train tour of switzerland - all-inclusive grand train tour: your gateway to switzerland's wonders.

★★★★★ The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland , a top Switzerland train tour package , offers an all-inclusive, customizable journey through scenic train routes . Covering the Swiss Alps, lakes, and charming towns, it includes the Glacier Express , Bernina Express , and GoldenPass Express , simplifying your travel planning for an unforgettable Swiss experience.

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Enjoy the simplicity and convenience of our all-inclusive Swiss rail vacation packages. Experience scenic journeys on premium panoramic trains like the Glacier Express and Bernina Express , along with comfortable accommodations and select attractions. We’ve bundled everything for a seamless travel experience.

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Each of our Switzerland train tours features a detailed itinerary that meticulously outlines routes, schedules, and attractions. Whether you’re journeying through the Swiss Alps or aboard the iconic Glacier Express , our clear itineraries ensure a stress-free adventure.

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We value the personal touch in travel. Our Grand Train Tour of Switzerland offers flexibility for customization. Whether you desire extended stays at specific locations or wish to add unique excursions, our packages are designed to cater to your dream Swiss vacation.

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Unlock your Swiss adventure for less! Book your Grand Train Tour of Switzerland through SwissASAP.com and enjoy an exclusive 5% discount. Use promo code SWISSASAP at checkout. Don’t miss out—your journey through the heart of Switzerland starts here!

Discover our curated packages for the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

Explore our Grand Train Tour of Switzerland package , offering a breathtaking journey across 1,280 kilometers on premium trains like the Bernina Express , Glacier Express , GoldenPass Express , and Gotthard Panorama Express . Start with our expertly designed itineraries and customize your trip by adjusting the number of nights or upgrading your hotel. 

Exclusively on SwissASAP , take advantage of our special promotion. Book your  Grand Train Tour of Switzerland   and enjoy a fantastic  5% discount   on your purchase . Simply use the promo code “ SWISSASAP “ during the checkout process to avail yourself of this incredible offer.

The Original

8 days / 7 nights  from CHF 1,280/person

Experience the essence of Swiss travel with The Original Tour. Spanning 8 days, this journey takes you through Europe’s most stunning landscapes, offering a deep dive into Switzerland’s diverse cultural regions. Bookable with luggage transport (5% discount Promo Code:  SWISSASAP )

The Classic

7 days / 6 nights  from CHF 1, 140/person Discover the heart of Switzerland in 7 days with The Classic Tour. From vibrant cities to tranquil lakes and alpine peaks, this tour showcases the multifaceted allure of Swiss scenery.

Bookable with luggage transport (5% Discount Promo Code:  SWISSASAP )

The Classic with Jungfraujoch

8 days / 7 nights  from CHF 1, 35 0/person Discover Switzerland’s iconic landscapes in 8 days aboard renowned tourist trains like the Glacier Express. Journey with the Jungfrau Railway to Europe’s highest station, experiencing the pinnacle of Swiss rail travel.

Top Attractions

5  days /  4  nights  from CHF  6 50/person Explore Switzerland’s highlights from Lucerne to Chur. Experience the majestic Matterhorn, the iconic Chapel Bridge, and the scenic Lavaux region.

(5% Discount Promo Code:  SWISSASAP )

Historic Tour

6  days /  5  nights  from CHF  1,235 /person Experience a unique edition of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, staying at distinctive Swiss Historic Hotels. Travel back in time aboard the Belle Époque carriage of the GoldenPass Line.

Glaciers and Palm Trees

4  days /  3  nights  from CHF  66 0/person Journey from St. Moritz to Lugano on the Bernina and Gotthard Panorama Expresses. Traverse the Swiss Alps, pass through Tirano in Italy, and arrive amidst Ticino’s Mediterranean palms.

(5% Discount Promo Code: SWISSASAP )

Stunning Waters

3 days / 2 nights  from CHF  30 0/person Start in Lucerne, then board the Voralpen-Express to St. Gallen. By day three, journey beside Lake Constance to witness Switzerland’s grandest spectacle, the Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen. (5% Discount Promo Code: SWISSASAP )

Hidden Treasures

3  days /  2  nights  from CHF  42 0/person Discover hidden gems on the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland. Journey from central Switzerland via the Lucerne-Interlaken Express, explore the Bernese Oberland, experience the Centovalli Express in Valais, and return on the renowned Gotthard Panorama Express.

Winter Magic Tour

7  days /  6  nights  from CHF  94 0/person

Experience glaciers, pristine snow, and icy lakes on the winter edition of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland. Traverse stunning winter landscapes and personalize your trip with mountain adventures and ski activities in renowned resorts.

Winter Edition

9  days /  8  nights  from CHF 1,420/person

Embark on a 9-day winter journey with the “Grand Train Tour of Switzerland”. Witness Switzerland’s iconic sights from cozy train seats, merging the nation’s finest panoramic routes into one unforgettable journey. Including Gornergrat (5% Discount Promo Code: SWISSASAP )

Why Choose SwissASAP for Your Grand Train Tour of Switzerland?

1. Official Product Guarantee: At SwissASAP , we pride ourselves on offering only official products directly in partnership with Swiss Travel System AG and STC Switzerland Travel Center AG. This means that when you book with us, you’re guaranteed to receive an authentic Swiss Travel Pass that includes all the benefits and reassurances that come directly from the official sources.

2. Prompt and Comprehensive Information: Our commitment to your seamless travel experience extends beyond just booking. SwissASAP ensures that you have all the necessary information at your fingertips, both through our user-friendly website and our dedicated back office team. Whether you need details about train schedules, hotel options, or travel tips, we are here to help you every step of the way. Contact our Support Team at Email: [email protected] .

3. Exclusive Savings with SwissASAP: To make your Swiss journey even more enjoyable, we offer an exclusive 5% discount on your Grand Train Tour of Switzerland when you use the promo code SWISSASAP at checkout. It’s our way of saying thank you for choosing us as your travel partner.

4. Expert Knowledge: Our team is not just skilled, but passionate about Switzerland. We know the ins and outs of traveling through this beautiful country and are eager to share our knowledge with you. From must-see destinations like the Jungfrau Region to hidden gems off the beaten path, our advice helps you get the most out of your Swiss adventure.

5. Personalized Customer Service: When you need assistance, a real person is ready to help. At SwissASAP, we ensure that you speak with human experts who understand your concerns and can offer personalized solutions, rather than relying on automated responses. Our team is here to support you before, during, and after your trip.

Choose SwissASAP for a trusted, enriching, and hassle-free journey through the wonders of Switzerland. Experience the beauty of the Swiss Alps, iconic cities, and picturesque landscapes with the peace of mind that comes from having a reliable travel partner by your side.

In a delightful twist of fate, a minor confusion disrupts the itineraries of Roger Federer and Trevor Noah , setting them off on an unforgettable journey aboard the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland.  Join the duo as they embark on their remarkable expedition, traversing the breathtaking vistas of Switzerland.

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Explore Other Theme Holidays Packages

In addition to the  Grand Train Tour of Switzerland , we provide a selection of  themed holiday packages . Discover Switzerland from unique angles through our captivating themed experiences. Embark on a breathtaking journey with the Palm Express, as you traverse from St. Moritz to Lugano aboard a post bus, indulging in panoramic vistas along the way. As well, during the purchasing process, you have the opportunity to avail yourself of a  5% discount  by applying the promo code “ SWISSASAP .”

Best of Switzerland

5  days /  4  nights  from CHF  6 00/person

Dive into Switzerland’s scenic splendors with stays in Lucerne and Interlaken. Enhance your Swiss vacation with mountain adventures to Pilatus, Stanserhorn, Titlis, or the iconic Jungfraujoch. (5% Discount Promo Code: SWISSASAP )

In the Footsteps of James Bond

8  days /  7  nights  from CHF 1,460/person

Embark on an 8-day Swiss rail tour reliving iconic James Bond scenes. The highlight? Piz Gloria atop Schilthorn, the infamous Blofeld’s Lair.

(5% Discount Promo Code: SWISSASAP)

Famous Mountain Peaks by Train

5 days / 4 nights  from CHF  72 0/person

Experience a Swiss train tour package to renowned peaks: Jungfraujoch and Gornergrat. Revel in unparalleled views of the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, and the majestic Aletsch Glacier.

Magical Moment

7  days /  6  nights  from CHF  1, 200/person

Revel in Switzerland’s winter charm in renowned resorts of Interlaken and Lucerne. From alpine peaks to traditional Cheese Fondue and horse-drawn sleigh rides, it’s a winter wonderland. (5% Discount Promo Code: SWISSASAP )

Palm Express

3  days /  2  nights  from CHF  40 0/person

A unique panoramic journey by post bus, starting from alpine St. Moritz, through the serene Bergell, touching Chiavenna (Italy), and culminating at the shores of Lake Lugano in Lugano. (5% Discount Promo Code: SWISSASAP )

Furka Steam Railway

2  days /  1  night  from CHF  36 0/person

Relish a nostalgic steam ride on this Swiss train tour package, showcasing engineering marvels from Oberwald via the Furka Pass to Realp, all set against the backdrop of the Rhone and Mutt glaciers. (5% Discount Promo Code: SWISSASAP )

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Grand Train Tour of Switzerland in 10 Days Itinerary

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• Trip Overview

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Countries Visited

Places visited, suggested duration, customizable itinerary, zurich – arrive in vibrant switzerland for an introductory city tour.

Zurich is a vibrant city set against the backdrop of the mouth of Limmat River. In the summer, locals jump into the water and drift with the current alongside the whitewashed tower homes to pass beneath the old bridges. Trees shade the walkways along the grid of the fortified Roman settlement on the left bank as bohemian neighborhoods brush against post-industrial apartments that contrast with the winding lanes and the tall church towers of the historical city center.

Your flight will land at Kloten Airport, and your private transfer will greet you upon your arrival. You will settle into the comforts of your luxurious hotel that overlooks the cobbled lanes of the antique neighborhood of Old Town and your guide will greet you in the lobby eager to lead you on an engaging tour of Switzerland’s largest city, beginning at Fraumunster. The Cathedral soars over the city with a 13th-century copper tower, and Marc Chagall crafted the remarkable stained-glass windows that depict stories from the Bible represented in bright, glowing hues.

What's Included:

St. Gallen – Venture to Renaissance Schaffhausen en route to St. Gallen

The morning light will wash over the city and shine against the turquoise waters of the Limmat River and the rippling surface of Zurich Lake. The doors of the cafes open to the city, emanating the aroma of fresh coffee and light, fluffy cakes. The cobbled square of St. Peter’s Church wraps around an ancient, rustling tree. Your private transfer will escort you to Zurich Hauptbahnhof, the main train station of the city. Your will board a first class car and make your way through the marvelous alpine countryside to reach Schaffhausen, an enchanting medieval town near the border with Germany.

The pedestrianized Old Town features pastel-colored homes with oriel bay windows. Ornate frescoes add an extra layer of historical charm to the houses that line the antique cobbled lanes. You will be able to hear the Rhine River rushing against the slopes of the grassy banks while the Munot Fortress crowns the summit that edges the city. The bright frescoes depict Golden Oxen and a Turkish sultan while the scent of fresh bread fades beneath the aroma of seductive buttery pastries topped with berries. You will then venture east to find the 15th-century Ritter House, which boasts a majestic Renaissance-style fresco that highlights the escapades of a valiant knight.

Lucerne – Explore the Scenery of Rapperswil, Bern, and Stunning Lucerne

You will wake up in St. Gallen, one of the highest cities in the world, located at more than 6,550 feet above sea level. The aroma of decadent, thick hot chocolate drifts beneath the homes of 15th-century textile merchants as you make your way to St. Gallen Railway Station for the relaxing and scenic journey to Rapperswil. The town is located on the upper edges of Lake Zurich and is known for the vivacious roses that blossom in the three celebrated gardens.

The castle towers over the town and offers a panoramic view to the jagged mountain peaks and church spires. The edifice was erected in the 13th century in the shape of a triangle, and a tower reinforces the axis. Battlements wrap around the six-story palace while a stunning fresco on a house in Hauptplatz depicts the founding of the town. The medieval city center leads to the lake promenade where cafes set out tables and chairs for patrons to enjoy the panorama of the rippling lake and sloping foothills. 600 different types of roses bloom in summer and fall, making the town radiate crimson, violet, yellow, and orange.

Montreux – Travel the Brunig Pass to Interlaken to View Jungfraujoch

The sunlight will spread over the emerald canopy of the alpine forest that surrounds Lucerne. The red-tiled rooftops of Old Town glint against the turquoise hues of Lake Lucerne as the 14th-century Chapel Bridge connects the opposite shores of the city, decorated with 17th-century frescoes along the roof rafters. Your private transfer will escort you to your first-class train car at Luzern Bahnhof to venture through the Brunig Pass. The railway travels more than 45 miles along a narrow gauge line. Outside the window, you will find shimmering cobalt blue lakes, jade grasses, emerald trees, and rugged mountain peaks that roll over the horizon.

Tulips blossom in the gardens that are connected to the more than 30 acres of the Hoheweg, an avenue between the east and west train station. The flatland and verdant grass bring a sweeping view to the Jungfrau, the main massif, framed by hotels, cafes, and the flowers in bloom. You will then board the modern cogwheel railway to reach more than 6,800 feet above sea level. You will eventually reach the Jungfraujoch, the highest train station in the world and more than 11,000 feet above sea level. It is often referred to as the “Top of Europe.” The air is thin and crisp on your cheeks, and you will find the scent of ice drifting from the glacier and the meltwater creating the nearly 14-mile long ice stream in the distance.

Zermatt – Traverse Lake Geneva to Brig and Zermatt to find the Matterhorn

The splendors of Montreux inspired artists and writers, including the 19th-century poet Lord Byron. The tranquil lakeside resort town maintains a mild climate, and a charming Old Town set beneath the ramparts of the 13th-century fortress. The morning air fills with the scent of chocolate and buttery pastries emanating from the quiet cafes. Your private transfer will lead you to the train station for your scenic ride to Brig, and the gorgeous landscape persists during the ride from Brig to Zermatt. Travel along rugged cliffs and steep mountain slopes to reach the car-free alpine town.

The Matterhorn bursts from the horizon as if from a jack-in-the-box, reaching a height of nearly 14,700 feet above sea level with a curvature resembling a shark’s fin. The steep slopes enclose the green valley and lead to marvelous views of the Matterhorn from every single angle as half-timber homes resemble wooden chalets. You will board Europe’s highest cogwheel train, known as the Gornergrat Bahn, named for position along the hills of the more than 10,100-foot high Gornergrat Mountain. The railway was erected in the late 19th century, and at sunset you can watch the layers of the sky burn orange and red, reflecting in the snow-capped peak of the Matterhorn.

St. Moritz – Ride the Glacier Express to Chur on a Scenic Train to St. Moritz

The rustic wood that frames the lobby windows adds to the luxury and charm of your accommodation in Zermatt. You will have a view of the Matterhorn from the comforts of your hotel and can savor the refreshing hot chocolate at breakfast. As you are ready, you will venture to the train station to board your first-class car on the Glacier Express. The train is celebrated for its majestic views as it passes through more than 90 tunnels and across nearly 300 bridges. Peaceful pastures shine with green grass set against the spectacular snow-capped mountaintops the background.

Villages of half-timber homes overlook cows and sheep as they graze in the alpine meadows. You will soon reach Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland, nestled in a small valley encircled by the Alps. The city was established in 3,000 BC and has beckoned people with unfathomable natural beauty and a chic charm that comes from boutiques, art galleries, quaint cafes, and restaurants serving traditional Swiss cuisine that fill the city. Old Town rests near the banks of the Plessur River, and the Obertor Tower serves as the entrance gate to the city center. The distinctive spire of the Martinskirche Church was erected in the 15th century with a Gothic style and is now adorned with a gorgeous clock. After taking your time to enjoy the pleasant ambiance of the city, you will return to the train station and continue to St. Moritz.

Lugano – Discover the Valleys and Alps that border Italy en route to Lugano

In the morning, the wildflowers of the hillside plains outside of St. Moritz will rustle in the gentle breeze. The water shines with cobalt hues against the emerald prairie and granite foothills as the aroma of hot chocolate and meringue emanates from the cafes that offer views to the lakeshore year round. The charming high-altitude town represents the idyllic and serene ambiance of a destination with delights all year long. After breakfast, you will board your train bound for Lugano, near the border of Italy on the shores of the eponymous lake.

The hill of Monte San Salvatore protrudes from the water with radiant forest and terraced vineyards. The peak reaches a height of nearly 3,000 feet above sea level with views to the Alps as red tiled roofs spread across the hills and cluster around the shoreline. The lakeside park radiates color from the blossoming flowers that lead to the Mediterranean palms that grow against the lake. The 18th-century Palazzo Riva frames the waterway beneath the towering mountains as the San Lorenzo Cathedral rises above the historical city center with a façade specific to the Renaissance styles of Italy’s Lombardy region. Images of lions and birds frame the portals beneath the glistening rose window.

Lucerne – Enjoy the Wilhelm Tell Express and a Cable Car Ride to Mt. Titlis

The scent of croissants will fade beneath the distinct aroma of bacon sizzling from the dining room of Hotel International Au Lac, located on the lakeside promenade. Boats crisscross the waters of Lake Maggiore while the surface reflects the beauty of the surrounding mountains and historical architecture. You will have a private transfer to the train station to board the Wilhelm Tell Express, which combines travel by land and water. Pass the dramatic castles of Bellinzona in the Ticino Valley before venturing into the feat of civil engineering through the Gotthard Tunnel. The wonders of steep cliffs and gorgeous meadows follow you until you reach the shores of Lake Lucerne.

Exit your first class train car and board a steamer ship ready to ferry you across the shimmering waters of the nearly 45 square mile lake. Your private transfer will then greet you at Luzern Bahnhofquai, the peer right beside the train station. After the beautiful journey and quick side trip to the top of Mt. Titlis, you can then take time to settle into the comforts of your luxurious hotel situated along the charming streets of Old Town. Cobbled lanes lead to charming cafes in view of the celebrated medieval covered bridges. The Cathedral spires imitate the sharp peaks of the surrounding mountains as the Chapel Bridge was erected in the 14th century and remains one of the best-preserved wooden bridges of its time.

Zurich – Return to Zurich on a Fabulous Train for a Cruise to Rhine Falls

The scent of apricot jam and berry marmalade accompanies the unmistakable aroma of fresh bread as drifts out of the local bakery in Old Town. You will catch sight of the 13th-century octagonal water tower that connects to the Chapel Bridge. Geese glide along the calm at the mouth of the Reuss River, and you will then take the train back to Zurich, finding familiarity in the mixture of antique elegance in Old Town and 19th-century grandeur of the arcades along Bahnhofstrasse.

After settling into the hotel, you will take to the waters once again, this time boarding a boat at Kreuzlingen and setting off to view Rhine Falls. The boat ride takes you along Lake Constance to the mouth of the Rhine River. Europe’s largest cascade is located near Schaffhausen, and has a width of nearly 500 feet across, roaring over rocks at a depth of almost 70 feet. The raw power of the falls is breathtaking, causing the mist to rise from the whitewater. The medieval town of Stein am Rhein overlooks the shores of the river, with old alleyways, brightly painted homes, and captivating frescoes all yours to explore.

Zurich – Depart for Home

In the morning, the aroma of chocolate truffles and macaroons emanates from the confectionaries that are located on the Bahnhofstrasse. The main street of Switzerland’s largest city stretches to a length of nearly 4,000 feet while the principal church of the city stands on an open terrace above the banks of the river, dominating the skyline with 15th-century Romanesque towers. The figure of Charlemagne adorns the south tower to commemorate the emperor believed to have founded the order to which the original church belonged. Bronze doors shine in the returning sunlight as steamers return to the waters to crisscross the vivid colors of the lake. After one last quiet morning to explore it all, your private transfer will greet you at your hotel when you are ready and escort you to Zurich Airport for your flight home.

Trip Highlights

• Enjoy a ride on Europe’s highest cogwheel train at more than 10,100 feet above sea level on Gornergrat Mountain
• Venture to the highest railway station in the world at more than 11,000 feet above sea level inside the Jungfrau Massif
• Relish the charm and elegance of the preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture in Schaffhausen
• Delight with your steamboat ride on the stoic waters of Lake Constance to view the largest cascade in Europe, Rhine Falls
• Embrace the car-free streets of Zermatt and the unparalleled panoramas of the infamous Matterhorn
• Revel in the beautiful scenery on a ride along the Glacier Express Railway, connecting Zermatt to Chur and St. Moritz
• Relax in the Mediterranean ambiance and Italian style of Lugano, a lakeside town located near the border of Italy
• Take the first revolving cable car around Mt. Titlis to find panoramic views of the snowcapped Alps and lush meadows below 

Detailed Description

Traveling by train will allow you to relax in the wonders of the passing countryside during your 10-day grand tour of Switzerland. Your exploration will begin with your arrival in Zurich, the largest city in the Alpine country. Your private transfer will greet you at customs and escort you to your gorgeous hotel in the heart of the historical district. Meet your guide in the lobby, to begin with your in-depth tour of the fascinating cultural history of Old Town and the banks of the Limmat River. Wake the next morning to board your first train bound for Schaffhausen, and enjoy the quiet charms of the Renaissance structures and fabulous artwork around town. Continue to St. Gallen to discover the inspiring Abbey and surrounding plains of Appenzell.

The next day, you will board the Pre-Alpine Express and make your way to Rapperswil, an idyllic medieval town. Take your time to wander the beautiful streets before continuing to Lucerne to explore the covered bridges and enchanting historical center with your guide before visiting the celebrated shopping promenade. The next day, you will take the Golden Pass Line through the Brunig Pass to reach Interlaken. Traverse the streets of town before taking to the railways that lead to the highest train station in the world. Continue to the luxurious town of Montreux located on the shores of Lake Geneva.

The following day, you will travel through the Forclaz Pass to reach the town of Brig en route to the car-free streets of Zermatt. Enjoy the serene ambiance of the town as it offers unfettered views of the Matterhorn. Board the antique cog railway for a panoramic view of nearly 30 mountain peaks as they punctuate the sky. Travel next to St. Moritz on the Glacier Express, and stop in Church, the oldest city in Switzerland, to learn about the history of the ancient settlement. Relish the spectacular scenery that will lead you to the comforts of St. Moritz. Venture next to Lugano, located near the Italian border and embrace the Mediterranean climate and Italianate culture.

Ride the Wilhelm Tell Express the following day to combine the fabulous railway system of Switzerland with the thrill of taking a steamboat across Lake Lucerne. You can also ride the world’s first revolving cable car for panoramic views of the landscape around Mt. Titlis. Settle into the comforts of Lucerne for the evening, and then the next day, return to Zurich and continue to the shores of Lake Constance for a fabulous scenic boat ride to Rhine Falls. Visit the medieval village of Stein am Rhein before reaching Zurich in the afternoon, and then conclude the next day as your private transfer will greet you at your hotel and escort you to Zurich Airport for your flight home. Interested in learning more by seeing some of our travelers’ Switzerland vacation tour reviews? Click here for more.

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$5,195  per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

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Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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Grand Train Tour of Switzerland

Experience the most breathtaking panoramic rail routes in Switzerland on an unforgettable round trip, carefully planned and coordinated by one of our experienced Switzerland travel experts. Your travel package includes train tickets, seat reservations where necessary and comfortable hotel accommodation. The itinerary and duration of your trip can be customised, according to your preferences, to create a tailor-made dream journey through Switzerland’s Alpine scenery. 

Route Information

The full Grand Train Tour covers around 1,280 kilometres of rail routes and includes journeys on Switzerland’s most famous panoramic trains, such as the Bernina Express, the Glacier Express, the GoldenPass Express and the Gotthard Panorama Express. Travellers experience a wide variety of landscapes, including magical mountain scenery, stunning crystal-clear lakes, lively towns and idyllic villages.

Route Highlights

The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland showcases many of Switzerland’s highlights, including:

• Legendary Panoramic Trains  such as the Glacier Express, “the slowest express train in the world”, offering breathtaking views of Alpine scenery, passing deep gorges and crossing impressive viaducts.
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites along the route, including the Albula and Bernina lines of the Rhaetian Railway and the Abbey District in St. Gallen.
• Switzerland’s most popular holiday resorts such as Zermatt with the majestic Matterhorn mountain, glamorous St. Moritz, the picturesque city of Lucerne and Interlaken, gateway to the Jungfrau Region.

FAQ Frequently Asked Questions

Can i book my roundtrip in advance.

Yes and advance booking is highly recommended, especially for the busy summer season when demand is particularly high. Packages can be booked easily, online or via one of our travel experts.

What is the best time of year to take the trip?

This depends on your personal preferences. Each season offers something different:

• Spring (April to May) : Ideal for nature lovers, as landscapes bloom and temperatures are pleasant. There may still be snow at higher altitudes. 
• Summer (June to August) : The best time to enjoy the full splendour of the Swiss countryside, especially if intending to hike or cycle. The weather is warm and days are long however, this is also peak season for visitors. 
• Autumn (September to November) : Great for photography enthusiasts, as colours change to magnificent seasonal shades while the weather remains mild.
• Winter (December to February) : This season brings magical snowy landscapes and the opportunity to experience Switzerland’s winter sports resorts.

In general, spring and autumn mean pleasant weather, while summer is ideal for those that love sun and outdoor activities. Winter offers a unique opportunity to enjoy snow-covered Alpine landscapes.

Please note that it is only possible to complete the full Grand Train Tour of Switzerland from spring to autumn, due to the seasonal opening of the Gotthard Panorama Express route.

Can I travel with children?

Yes, trains in Switzerland are suitable for passengers of all ages, including families with children but please do note the following important points:

• Tickets:  Children can benefit from reduced fares, depending on their age. Please contact our travel experts for more specific information about your booking. 
• Entertainment and Activities:  Remember to bring something (books or games) to keep your children occupied. 
• Snacks and Refreshments: The Glacier Express, Goldenpass Express and Gotthard Panorama Express boat all offer catering options but we, nevertheless, recommend that you bring plenty of snacks and drinks for your children.

Are the trains wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the trains are wheelchair accessible. Please contact one of our travel experts to organise your trip.

What is the difference between 1st and 2nd class?

The main differences between 1st and 2nd class are the seat arrangement and comfort. In 1st class, passengers enjoy larger, more comfortable seats with additional legroom and space for luggage. The seating arrangement is usually 2+1, meaning two seats to one side of the aisle and one on the other, offering more privacy. In 2nd class, there are usually two seats on either side of the aisle. Although 2nd class seats are still comfortable, they offer slightly less space and legroom than those in 1st class.

Our classic packages

Grand train tour of switzerland - the original.

Discover Switzerland on the 8-day “Grand Train Tour of Switzerland” in Europe’s most exciting panoramic trains. Marvel at the spectacular landscape during your trip and experience the cultural differences in this country with its 4 language regions.

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - The Classic

Take in the very best of Switzerland on this exciting 7-day itinerary. Travelling by rail throughout, marvel at the diversity of bustling cities and shimmering lakes; from snow-capped mountain peaks to palm-tree lined streets. With panoramic carriages, these trains and destinations truly offer something for everyone.

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - Top Attractions

Discover Switzerland's top attractions during a round trip to Lucerne, Interlaken, Montreux, Zermatt and Chur. Marvel at the unique Matterhorn, visit the Chapel Bridge and explore Lavaux.

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - Winter Magic Tour

Be inspired by glaciers, powder snow and frozen lakes! The winter edition of the "Grand Train Tour of Switzerland" takes you through beautiful landscapes and snow fun. Make this holiday your own with the option to add on mountain excursions and fun ski activities in famous resorts.

Customisable journey

Our holidays can easily be tailored to your own preferences.

Our combined offers

Grand train tour of switzerland - the classic with jungfraujoch.

Switzerland is celebrated for its superb scenery, as well as for the excellent tourist trains that allow visitors to make the most of this spellbinding county. Enjoy some of its many highlights on this 8-day tour, which includes many famous trains including the Glacier Express and even the Jungfrau Railway to the ‘Top of Europe’ – the highest railway station on the continent.

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - Winter Edition

Experience the wonder of Switzerland in winter on the 9 day "Grand Train Tour of Switzerland". Discover all the sights and landmarks Switzerland has to offer from the comfort of your seat. A holiday that combines the most beautiful panoramic train lines into one unique route.

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - Historic Tour

On this special edition of the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, you'll enjoy Swiss hospitality at select Swiss Historic Hotels, each with its own unique story to tell. As you travel in the historic Belle Époque carriage of the GoldenPass Line, you will immerse yourself in another time.

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - Glaciers & Palm Trees

Travel on the Bernina Express and Gotthard Panorama Express through the Swiss Alps to the palm trees from St. Moritz via the Bernina Pass to Tirano (Italy) and on to the Mediterranean Ticino and Lugano.

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - Stunning Waters

The journey begins in Lucerne. After a good night's sleep, the next day you take the Voralpen-Express to St. Gallen. On the third day you travel along Lake Constance to the largest waterfall in Switzerland, the Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen.

Grand Train Tour of Switzerland - Hidden Treasures

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