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"Switzerland is a country that has to be seen to be believed and it's always a special moment to watch our guests lay eyes on the Swiss Alps for the first time."

Travel Director

The best of Switzerland unlocked for you

Experience Switzerland differently. Enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences and uncover local secrets when our friends across the country open their doors to you. Here’s just a sample of the rich experiences you can expect.

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Want to explore a Swiss mountain by cable car?

Want to explore Lake Geneva by boat?

Cruise Lake Geneva

On a sunny day, there’s no better way to tour Switzerland than by water. Gaze at the country from its largest lake and learn something new about its shores, choosing a historic paddle boat, passenger ferry or cocktail-sipping sunset cruise.

Discover the 15th-century vineyards of Cave Champ de Clos

The Conne family have been producing wine for centuries in the heart of the UNESCO heritage region of Lavaux. Be hypnotized by rows of terraced vineyards then retire to the stone cellar to taste the vintages they have produced.

Take a horse carriage ride through the Alps and Rosegg Valley

The alps are home to an endlessly romantic trail that can be taken on horse carriage ride. Rug up in blankets for this fairytale experience through alpine forests, arriving at a destination of snow capped mountains and an impressive glacier. The kind of views imagined when dreaming up a Switzerland trip.

Ride up to Stans by Switzerland's oldest mountain railway

Start in Lucerne and travel along tracks from the 1890s, watching villages and views pass by in the window. With wildflower meadows in the summer and snow dusted trees in winter, you will unwind as you wind around the mountains for 30 minutes before reaching the top.

Travel to the heart of Switzerland, Interlaken

The unassuming town of Interlaken is the perfect base to connect with the soul of Switzerland. Explore over 700 hikes which roam into the mountains from your doorstep, with charming isolated villages found sitting between them.

Our top 5 things to do in Switzerland

We'll take you through the pristine natural beauty of this country, with a trip that's filled with moments of awe. Lakes, grapevines and alpine forests prove it's not just the hills that are alive in Switzerland.

Swiss National Museum

There is a reason this is Switzerland's most frequently visited museum of cultural history. Inside, you will immerse in the past and present through some 840,000 objects. From bronze Age bowls to silver knight’s armor, nowhere else will deliver such a rich and comprehensive insight into the Swiss.

Lake Geneva

Charlie Chaplin museum

The property where Charlie Chaplin spent his last years provides an intimate glimpse into the iconic entertainer's life and work. Be moved by a walk through the vast estate, where you will marvel at his original bowler hat and boots, hear tales from friends and touch painstakingly replicated movie sets.

Zentrum Paul Klee

The namesake of this museum is one of the 20th century's most important artists. Step into the space to quietly take in his artworks, you might find yourself lost in the famous cubism inspired 'Insula dulcamara' or colorful jigsaw that the German-Swiss genius was most famous for.

Best museums in Switzerland

There's more to this landlocked country than army knives and chocolate. With Trafalgar, you will gain a deeper understanding of Switzerland through these must-visit museums.

Once a farmers’ breakfast, Rösti is now a plate popular amongst the Swiss. One bite into this crisp baked potato and you will be hooked. Luckily, the country's many regions boast their own versions, offering an excuse to sample many during your tour of Switzerland.

There is more to this classic fare than dipping bread into a pot of melted cheese. It’s a sacred pastime. To the Swiss, fresh bread and bubbling creamy Gruyere is incomplete without one vital ingredient: good company. Indulge in authentic fondue in Switzerland in the company of new friends.

Swiss chocolate

Chocolate aficionados will find no shortage of pleasure in the smooth chocolate of Switzerland. The birthplace of Lindt, Toblerone, Mövenpick and more, a banquet of cocoa will be enjoyed here in the name of culture.

Best food in Switzerland

Baked potato, melted cheese and genuine chocolate. The culinary delights of Switzerland were designed with only the pleasure of taste in mind, and it's an indulgence Trafalgar is only too happy to share with you.

What to pack for Switzerland

Even in summer, layers are vital in Switzerland. Temperatures differ throughout through the country and can get particularly crisp in the higher mountains.

A good quality camera

In a place known for pinch me moments, it would be remiss to forget something more than just a smartphone to capture them all.

Swiss Francs

Switzerland may be at the core of Europe, but this country abandoned the Euro many years ago. Though you can still use them in some larger establishments, but it's better to arm yourself with plenty of Francs so you're never caught short.

A phrasebook

A phrasebook with the national languages of German, French and Italian is essential on a tour of Switzerland. If you really can’t spare the space, download them to your Google Translate app offline.

Walking shoes

If your trip is likely to see you traversing the dynamic landscapes of Switzerland, a pair of sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots should be on the packing list.

Pack for sustainable travel

Consider your environmental impact when you next take a trip and go single-use-plastic-free by packing a reusable water bottle, a steel straw, your own shopping bags and refillable toiletry bottles.

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Switzerland Tours & Vacations

No other country does the great outdoors quite like Switzerland.

Whether you're walking through scenic alpine meadows, scaling tough mountain passes, taking on the ski slopes, or kayaking on crystalline lakes, Switzerland offers stunning scenery, panoramic views, and the chance to commune with nature in one of its purest forms. With rich chocolate and fine cheese waiting as a reward, Switzerland is the place for the active and the indulgent.

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Switzerland tour reviews

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Best of Switzerland

Articles of Switzerland

Travelling without my kids showed me the pain of leaving and the joy of going

5 of the best walks in Europe – The Great Walks of Europe

Feeling the sting of Saturn returns? Here’s how travel will help.

Chocolate, cheese and cogwheel trains: 5 awesome things to do in Switzerland

6 places to tick off your Swiss bucket list

Once upon a time: 5 fairy-tale towns and cities in Europe

Photo proof that Switzerland is the most beautiful country in Europe

Switzerland at a glance

Capital city.

Bern (population 441,000)

8.9 million

German, French, Italian, Romansh

(GMT+01:00) Amsterdam, Berlin, Bern, Rome, Stockholm, Vienna

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type J (Swiss 3-pin)

Learn more about Switzerland

Best time to visit switzerland.

May, June, September, and October are wonderful months for seeing Switzerland, as the weather is typically mild, the mountain passes are still open and the country is less crowded than in the peak holiday months of July and August.

It tends to rain more in the months of March, April, October, and November, and with snowfall usually present from December, this is the perfect time for skiers and snowboarders.

Geography and environment

Landlocked Switzerland shares borders with   Austria , Lichtenstein,   Italy ,   France , and   Germany .

A highly mountainous country, Switzerland's best-known ranges are the Alps in the south, with the mighty Matterhorn and iconic Eiger being the most well-known peaks.

Home to an abundance of rolling hills, lakes, glaciers, rivers, meadows, and fields, Switzerland's landscapes are incredibly picturesque, particularly in spring and summer when the wildflowers are in bloom.

Top 5 culinary classics of Switzerland

While not enjoying the same worldwide popularity that it did in the 1960s and 70s, this Swiss classic is still alive and well in Switzerland. Although not to everyone's taste, travelers should experience sitting around a communal pot of rich, melted cheese at least once.

Who knew that a plate of grated, fried potato could taste so good? Considered to be Switzerland's national dish, Rosti was once relegated to the breakfast plate but is now served as an accompaniment to dinners too.

3. Bircher Muesli

This Swiss-German classic has taken off worldwide as a breakfast food, although it was originally created for hospital patients by a Swiss physician. Commonly eaten in the evening in southern Switzerland, it's a nutritious mix of oats, fruits, and seeds.

This brioche-like, plaited bread is a traditional Sunday morning treat in Switzerland. Dating back to the 15th century, this delicious bread can be found in bakeries all over Switzerland, especially on Sundays.

Making hundreds of varieties of cheese, Switzerland is one of the best places in the world to indulge in a dose of calcium. Whether it's a chunk of hard Gruyere, a slice of Emmental, or a bit of fruity Appenzeller, Switzerland has enough cheese shops to satisfy everyone.

Further reading

Switzerland travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Is tipping customary in Switzerland?

When dining out, service charges and taxes are usually included in the bill. Rounding up the bill or adding 5-10% is customary, although optional.

What is the internet access like in Switzerland?

Internet access is very good in Switzerland, with cyber cafes and Wi-Fi hotspots easily found in most cities and major towns.

Can I use my cell phone while in Switzerland?

Cell phone coverage is generally very good in most cities in Switzerland. Mountainous regions may have patchy coverage, however. Ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive.

What are the toilets like in Switzerland?

Modern, flushable toilets are the standard in Switzerland.

What will it cost for a…?

Cup of coffee in a cafe = 3-4 Fr Beer in a bar or restaurant = 5-7 Fr Simple lunch in a cafe = 10-15 Fr Dinner at a restaurant = 30-50 Fr

Can I drink the water in Switzerland?

Tap water is considered safe to drink unless otherwise marked.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Switzerland?

Major credit cards are widely accepted by stores and hotels in Switzerland. Smaller cafes and shops may not accept credit cards, so ensure you carry enough cash to cover small purchases.

What is ATM access like in Switzerland?

ATMs are very common in Switzerland so finding one won't be a problem in most towns and cities.

What public holidays are celebrated in Switzerland?

• 1 Jan New Year's Day
• 2 Jan Saint Berchtold's Day
• 6 Jan Epiphany
• 1 Mar Republic Day
• 19 Mar Saint Joseph's Day
• 14 Apr Good Friday
• 17 Apr Easter Monday
• 1 May Labour Day
• 25 May Ascension Day
• 4 Jun Pentecost Sunday
• 5 Jun Whit Monday
• 15 Jun Corpus Christi
• 29 Jun St. Peter and St. Pau
• 1 Aug National Day
• 15 Aug Assumption
• 7 Sep Jeûne genevois
• 17 Sep Federal Day of Thanksgiving, Repentance and Prayer
• 18 Sep Day after the Federal Fast
• 25 Sep Saint Nicholas of Flüe Day
• 1 Nov All Saints Day
• 8 Dec Immaculate Conception
• 25 Dec Christmas Day
• 26 Dec St. Stephen's Day
• 31 Dec Restoration of the Republic

*Please note these dates may vary. For a current list of public holidays in Switzerland go to World Travel Guide's website.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

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Switzerland tours

These itineraries are designed to give you some suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Switzerland, and they showcase some of the routes that we’ve found work particularly well.

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Lakes & mountains of Switzerland

Sample Swiss wine on the shores of Lake Geneva.

Watch as the setting sun paints the familiar Matterhorn shades of pink and gold.

Visit the longest glacier in Europe.

Marvel at the power of Geneva’s Jet d’Eau.

Spend time in Switzerland’s most indulgent mountain resorts.

8 days from $4,500pp

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Highlights of Switzerland

Visit two medieval cities, Zürich and Bern, both laced with history.

Head to the Top of Europe at Jungfraujoch to admire the Bernese Alps.

Visit a traditional cheesemaker to learn how Emmental gets its holes.

Ride the world’s steepest cogwheel train to the top of Pilatus Kulm.

Journey on the GoldenPass Panoramic train through some of Switzerland’s most inspiring scenery.

11 days from $5,895pp

Austria & Switzerland self-drive

Enjoy the freedom of your own car on this self-drive trip. Audley can arrange a rental vehicle for you if you require one.

Experience authentic Austrian fare accompanied by traditional Tyrolean music and dancing.

Take a panoramic boat cruise across Lake Geneva.

Explore the postcard-worthy village of Hallstatt in the Austrian lake district.

16 days from $7,135pp

Grand tour of Switzerland

Take in the endless vistas at Glacier 3000.

Sample traditional Swiss chocolates and cheese.

Explore Zermatt's scenic trails with the backdrop of the Matterhorn.

Cruise Lake Geneva's smooth waters in style.

13 days from $7,655pp

Panoramic Switzerland & Italy

Combine mountains and lakes.

Ride the Glacier Express between Zermatt and St. Moritz.

Learn to cook risotto on the shores of Lake Lugano.

Relax on Lake Como.

11 days from $8,155pp

The Rhône-Alpes in depth

Experience the gastronomic hub of Lyon.

Discover Burgundy and Beaujolais wine regions.

Visit the serene Lac d'Annecy.

Hike the French Alps.

Walk inside an ancient glacier.

11 days from $8,195pp

Cruising the Rhine: vineyards & villages

Cruise through the captivating UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge.

Take a guided bike tour through Strasbourg.

Visit Cologne Cathedral.

Enjoy a gondola ride above Rüdesheim's vineyards.

12 days from $11,495pp

Speak to our Switzerland specialists to plan your tailor-made itinerary

Some of our favorite travel guides.

Switzerland is a small country, but you’ll find much to see and do within its compact borders. Our guide offers a sampling of the country’s charms, from glacier hikes in the Alps to a privately guided tour of Switzerland’s small, storied wine region.

+41 (0)44 710 50 50 (7:00 - 21:00)

Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

Don’t miss the highlight of any Swiss holiday and join us for a full-day excursion to the Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe!

Titlis - Eternal Snow & Glacier

Take the revolving Rotair cable car up to Mt Titlis, where a magical winter wonderland awaits you all year round!

Pilatus - The Golden Round Trip

Take the Dragon Ride cable car to Mt Pilatus and descend by the world’s steepest cogwheel train before taking a relaxing lake cruise!

Zurich & Surroundings City Tour

Combine the fascinating city of Zurich with its beautiful surroundings on our extended afternoon sightseeing tour! 

Rhine Falls & Stein am Rhein

Visit the Rhine Falls, Europe’s biggest waterfall, and the medieval town of Stein am Rhein on an afternoon excursion from Zurich!

Zurich with Cruise & Lindt Home of Chocolate

Discover Zurich on a versatile city tour including a boat trip on Lake Zurich and a visit of the Lindt Home of Chocolate!

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Tour Categories

Sightseeing Tours

Discover our sightseeing tours with daily departures from zurich, lucerne and interlaken.

Browse our wide selection from city tours to full day mountain excursions with a professional tour guide introducing you to the most beautiful destinations in the German-speaking part of Switzerland.

Premium Small Group Tours

Discover our premium small group tours with max. 16 guests for a more personal touch.

Enjoy authentic experiences with hand-picked local providers at destinations off the beaten track from the comfort of a Mercedes minibus conducted by an experienced driver-guide. 

Multi-Day Tours

Discover our fine selection of multi-day tours and make the most out of your stay.

Combine our most popular mountain excursions with an unforgettable overnight stay including half board or breakfast and enjoy ample time at leisure to explore the most beautiful Swiss destinations.

Switzerland tours

Board the Bernina Express for a ride through the Alps and look over Lake Lucerne from the top of Mount Pilatus—our Switzerland tours are the best way to explore the country.

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We offer 200+ immersive, guided tours around the world. Wherever you choose to go, you’ll enjoy lots of advantages that make traveling with us different.

That’s all it takes to secure a spot on one of our group tours when you sign up for AutoPay . Plus, you can pay in interest-free, monthly installments.

While you’re deciding what to take, we’ll be busy arranging your hotels, meals, tickets, and more tour essentials. That’s what going guided is all about .

Take off on your big adventure— but why stop there? Every trip you book with us earns rewards that you can use to keep expanding your horizons.

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What our travelers say about their trips to Switzerland

Travel tips for switzerland trips.

What time of year is it best to visit Switzerland? It all depends on what you want to do! Late spring and early fall offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds at the must-visit sites in Switzerland, which can make for a more authentic experience. If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland in the winter, you can enjoy a festive atmosphere on special Christmas market and New Year’s Eve tours . Summer is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, because the mountains are clear of snow, and is a popular time of year for trips to Switzerland.

Our Switzerland tours are the best way to see the most popular sites. You’ll get to know idyllic Alpine towns firsthand, with the expertise of your local guides, and skip the lines at attractions that draw lots of visitors. Some of the highlights include:

• Lake Lucerne and the famous Kapellbrücke
• Interlaken, the gateway to the Alps
• A scenic trip on the Bernina Express
• Views of the Matterhorn from Gornergrat

On special trips to Switzerland, you can enjoy seasonal charms by visiting the country in winter. Shop for souvenirs and try local holiday treats at Christmas markets in Alpine towns or raise a toast on New Year’s Eve in Lucerne.

Switzerland is probably most famous for its chocolate and cheeses like gruyere and Emmental (which are definitely out of this world). The country’s regional cuisine also draws influences from France, German, and Italian cooking. Rösti is a dish that’s famous around the country, especially among Swiss-Germans. Rösti is made with grated potato and fried, so it’s a lot like hash browns—making it a popular breakfast option. Other favorites include fondue and raclette, two cheesy and melty dishes, and quiche.

On all our Switzerland tour packages, you’ll have included meals that introduce you to regional eats, as well as free time where you can seek out local favorites on your own. You can always count on your Tour Director to point you toward the best spots—each of our Switzerland escorted tours is led by an expert who knows the region in and out.

Our trips to Switzerland cover all seasons, which mean you can encounter everything from summer sunshine to snow. No matter what, on any Switzerland tours, you’ll want comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing, and packing layers is always a good idea. If you’re planning a trip to Switzerland in the winter, you’ll want cold-weather gear so you’re ready for spending time outdoors. We recommend having waterproof boots, a warm coat, and a hat and gloves.

Once you’ve reserved one of our Switzerland guided tours, we’ll give you more detailed packing tips, as well as all the other info you need to know before you know! Plus, you can download our Tour Companion app before you depart, so you’ll have all the info you need right in your pocket.

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Switzerland.

Reach new heights

Incredible skiing on the Swiss Alps and delectable Swiss chocolate are only two reasons for visiting Switzerland. Located between Austria, France, Germany and Italy, you can get quite a diverse European cultural experience depending on which region of Switzerland you choose. And though the food, music, art and people themselves are very much influenced by their European neighbours, they are all still uniquely Swiss. You will leave with plenty of memories to savour for a lifetime.

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Destination must-see's.

Matterhorn:

World famous and the symbol for Switzerland, this mountain is the most photographed in the world. It faces the four cardinal directions and is the tenth highest mountain in Switzerland, but because it has a pyramid shape it is very challenging to climb. The first ascent was in 1865 and cost the lives of 4 out of 7 alpinists. It gets its German name from the words matte meaning meadow and horn meaning peak.

This village is like no other. It lies at the foot of what is probably the world’s most famous mountain. It also is located in an enormous hiking and ski region, making it a great vacation spot, even in the summer. This is a car-free zone vacation spot, making it possible to preserve its historical features as well.

As the capital of Switzerland it has managed to retain its historic features. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It features 4 miles/6 km of arcades, or as the locals like to call it ‘Lauben,’ making it the longest weather-sheltered shopping in Europe. They also hold the seat of Switzerland’s government, many festivals, a bear park, and beautiful historic buildings that line the streets.

This gateway to central Switzerland sits on Lake Lucerne and has a view of the mountain from wherever you are. Aside from the view it has the Chapel Bridge which is one of Europe’s oldest wooden bridges. A tourist favourite is to visit its souvenir and watch shops, which Switzerland is known for.

Destination Must-Do's

Swiss Chocolate:

It is only expected that the country that created chocolate is the country that consumes the most chocolate as well. It was created by adding milk to chocolate to try to reduce the cost and make it more palatable, which lead to milk chocolate. Switzerland now has over seven major chocolate companies. The best part is if you are a chocolate lover you can tour these companies and try their many different chocolates.

Swiss fondue:

Swiss fondue was created by local villagers with limited access to fresh foods in the winter. They discovered that if you heated the aged cheese with wines, garlic, and herbs then dipped your stale bread it would soften in the flavourful cheese mixture. Families would cook together in one pot and eat by the warm fire, becoming a Swiss winter tradition over time known as fondue.

GoldenPass:

This train ride is like a day vacation. You experience two languages, three regions, and eight lakes. The company focuses on journey and comfort not just transportation. It has seven different lines you can choose from, with the most famous being the panoramic that has panoramic windows that allow you to be one with the landscape. The other is the chocolate train which is a first class trip that lets you experience the production of famous Swiss cheese, the creation of Swiss chocolate, and a chance to see its magnificent castle.

Glacier Express:

This may be the slowest express train in the world, but for a reason. There is so much to experience on this journey that they slow it down for you. It takes you from Zermatt to St. Moritz. The train ride is an eight-hour panoramic journey. You travel into the Alps, go through 91 tunnels, and 291 bridges.

Expert Advice

The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization encourages the identification, protection, and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world. Switzerland has three natural and eight cultural sites that can be visited when in the country.

The currency is the Euro in almost all of Europe. In Switzerland, the Swiss Franc is used (CHF). Your personal bank card may work at local ATM machines in the destination you are travelling to and would dispense local currency. Please contact your bank to determine if this option is available.

You're in for a treat as you truly savour the local flavours of the Alpine region. In Austria, look for the beef soup -- Rindsuppe -- a clear soup with gold colour that is as tasty as it looks! The Tafelspitz is beef boiled in broth, often served with an apple and horseradish sauce. It's one of Austria's most savoury dishes.

Featured Tours to Switzerland

Switzerland: Hidden Trails & Majestic Peaks

Alpine Lakes & Scenic Trains featuring a cruise on Lake Maggiore and scenic trains in Switzerland & Italy

Discover Switzerland, Austria & Bavaria

Discover Switzerland, Austria & Bavaria featuring Oktoberfest

Peaks of Europe: The Alps to The Dolomites featuring France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, and Italy

Exploring the Alpine Countries Austria - Germany - Switzerland

Europe: The Grand Tour

Northern Italy and Its Lakes featuring Lake Como and Venice

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Glorious Switzerland

11 Locations

3 Countries

Experience the Glamour and Glitz of Glorious Switzerland on an 8-Day Guided Tour

Magical Switzerland

9 Locations

All Aboard the Glacier Express for a 1-Week Guided Tour of Switzerland’s Winter Festivities

Winter Wonderland

12 Locations

4 Countries

Splendor Among the Snow: A 9-Day Guided Tour Spanning Germany, Austria and Switzerland

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Festive Revelry: A 9-Day Guided Tour of France, Germany and Austria’s Christmas Markets

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Experience a world beyond your expectations. Choose from our award-winning vacations on virtually every continent with local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share.

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Explore Switzerland Tours

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AI SWISS ITINERARY

• BUILD ITINERARY IN 30 SECONDS

Popular Packages by SWISS tours

Swiss Highlights

7 Nights / 8 Days

Chalet Style Holiday - Interlaken

Live it up in Lucerne

Glimpses of Switzerland & Paris

Tops of Switzerland

4 Nights / 5 Days

Magic of Glacier Express

6 Nights / 7 Days

How It Works

Select the cities with the duration of travel and proceed by entering your personal details.

We put together the best itinerary for you within seconds.

Customize the itinerary by adding nights or excursions to your package. Click on 'Get Trip Cost'.

Enter your dates of travel and the number of people travelling.

Review the itinerary, cost & inclusions and continue ahead to book your dream holiday.

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What if I don’t travel due to Covid related reasons??

While booking the hotels & sightseeing’s, you can check the cancellation for each product. The hotels and conducted tours will have the refund policy mentioned and you may choose accordingly. The Swiss pass and mountain excursions have a 1 day prior cancellation policy.

Are these individual packages or group packages?

These are individual packages and not group.

A customized itinerary takes days to prepare and how do we do it in a few seconds?

• Our algorithm based itinerary gives you the best possible routing making sure you don’t back track along with giving you the best possible suggestions and recommendations. With automation, it only made it easier. The integrations with partners around the world make the user experience seamless along with giving you the best itinerary & pricing in just a few seconds. Moreover our itineraries have been made by specialists who have not only been to the destination but also many years of experience selling the destination.

Do I get instant confirmation?

Yes, our inventory is live, dynamic and gives you instant confirmations.

Can I customize the itinerary??

Yes, You can customize the itinerary by choosing from the cities listed along with the number of days you wish to travel for. You have the option of changing your accommodation depending on your budget. You also have the option of adding/ removing nights in the ‘route overview’. We also have mentioned the suggested / recommended excursions in the itinerary and you may pick & choose as per your wish making your itinerary fully customizable.

How do I know the inclusions in the itinerary?

You may click on ‘Includes’ option after you get the cost of your trip as per your dates of travel and you will see the inclusions in your itinerary.

How does one travel between the cities in the itinerary?

The travel between cities is with the all in one Swiss Travel Pass which is included in the package.

How do I save the quote?

After you get a quote for your desired itinerary, click on the ‘mail this option’. The quote will be sent to your email id and you can refer to it at a later date.

Does the package give me the best rates & availability?

The package rates are based on real time inventory which ensure our passengers can book what they see. In this fast changing world, the availability of hotels and excursions change by the minute, however with our top end technology & algorithm used, we give you dynamic & real time pricing enabling you to book what you see.

Can I make changes after paying full payment?

Yes, we are flexible in date change options, subject to availability at the time of booking. Also the rates may increase/decrease as per your new dates of travel.

Is the accommodation in hotels or apartments?

• The accommodation is based on centrally located hotels & apartments(wherever applicable). We have specially handpicked the accommodation so that you stay in city centre hotels.

Is visa cost included in the itinerary?

No, the visa cost is not included. However we give you visa assistance which includes giving you visa letter for the package confirmed which is part of the documents required for visa.

Do I need to give any personal documents in order to make any bookings?

We only need your names as per passport and pan card details to be filled in while making the booking.

Are meals included in the package?

The package includes breakfast (wherever specified). Lunch & dinners are not included in the package.

Are flights included in the package?

Flights are not included in the package. Our experts can help you book the flights or you may book it on your own.

How do I get in touch with your travel planner for expert advice?

You can call, email, chat with us or Whatsapp us to help you handcraft your dream holiday. We can even arrange a video call with our experts. Our friendly and professional personnel are well travelled to almost all regions of the country having first hand experience and with their expertise can ensure that the clients have the most memorable vacation.

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Switzerland’s Alpine Majesty

Embrace the beauty of Switzerland on an eight-night journey for active travelers!

• Switzerland’s Alpine Majesty &body=Check out this new tour from Giving to Ohio State: https://www.osu.edu/alumni/events-and-travel/alumni-tours/alumni-tours-calendar/switzerlands-alpine-majesty" class="social-share__link"> Share via Email
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• Overview and Registration
• Highlights and Inclusions
• Travel Insurance
• Cancellation Policy

AHI Travel 800-323-7373

Rileigh Hageman [email protected]

Trip overview

This enchanting land is yours to behold, from snowcapped summits to winding footpaths and unfettered blue skies. Begin in gorgeous Interlaken, nestled in the Bernese Oberland. Enjoy visits to Kandersteg, a paradise for nature lovers, and storybook Lauterbrunnen. Travel on to charming Nyon, tucked along the sundrenched shores of Lake Geneva. Indulge in local Swiss chocolates and cheeses, and sip crisp vintages at a Lavaux winery replete with terraced slopes. Delight in lakeside Montreux, stroll ancient castle ramparts and cruise on Lake Geneva, shimmering like a jewel. You’re sure to enjoy the picturesque town of Annecy during a special excursion to the French Alps. During this one-of-a-kind journey, rides on cogwheels, trains and cable cars showcase the region’s quintessential beauty of dramatic cliffs, flower-filled meadows and sweeping forests. This program features first-class hotels, plus an extensive meal plan including wine with dinner. Let Switzerland’s wonders steal your heart!

Other tours you may be interested in

Egypt: Valley of the Kings for Young Alumni

Indianapolis 500

Greece - Athens and Kalamata

Tour highlights.

• Small group: Sized just right at 28 guests.
• Four nights in Interlaken, Switzerland, at the first-class Hotel Carlton-Europe.
• Four nights in   Nyon at the first-class Hotel Real Nyon.
• AHI Connects: Local immersion.
• AHI Sustainability Promise: We strive to make a positive, purposeful impact in the communities we visit.
• Complimentary travel mementos.
•  Eight breakfasts, three lunches and four dinners.
• Welcome and Farewell Dinners to mingle with fellow travelers.
• Tea or coffee with all meals, plus wine with dinner.
• Deluxe motor coach transfers during the Land Program with baggage handling.
• Engaging excursions showcase the local culture, heritage and history.
• Enrichment by expert speakers enhances your insight into the region.
• Free time to pursue your individual interests.
• Tipping of guides and drivers.
• A personal VOX headset to hear your English-speaking guide clearly.  

*Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Dates, itineraries, and prices are subject to change.

Day 1 - Depart for Zürich, Switzerland

Day 2 - Zürich, Switzerland   |   Interlaken

Day 3 - Kandersteg   |   Oeschinensee

Day 4 - Lauterbrunnen Valley   |   Mürren

Day 5 - Interlaken

Day 6 - Gruyères   |   Nyon

Day 7 - Montreux   |   Lavaux | Nyon

Day 8 - Annecy, France | Nyon

Day 9 - Geneva

Day 10 - Depart for gateway city

Preferred Travel Insurance

USI Travel Insurance Services is the preferred provider of travel insurance for The Ohio State University. We highly recommend that you review this information and consider insurance to protect yourself and your investment. USI is a comprehensive plan that offers three options, allowing you to select the coverage that best suits your needs. You can find additional details, request a quote and purchase a plan online at  https://my.travelinsure.com/ohiostate/  or by calling 1-800-937-1387 .

Cancellations

All cancellations must be submitted in writing to AHI Travel.

• Cancellation received up to 121 days prior to trip departure will incur a $300 per person administrative fee.
• Cancellation received 120 to 91 days prior to departure will result in forfeiture of 25% of the entire cost of the trip per person.
• Cancellation received 90-61 days prior to departure will result in forfeiture of 50% of the entire cost of the trip per person.
• Cancellation received 60-31 days prior to departure will result in forfeiture of 75% of the entire cost of the trip per person.
• Cancellation received 30 days prior to departure to the time of departure (or no show) will result in 100% forfeiture of the entire cost of the trip  

TRIP CANCELLATION INSURANCE IS AVAILABLE AND RECOMMENDED. AN APPLICATION WILL BE SENT AFTER YOU RESERVE. If a tour is canceled by AHI Travel before the date of departure for reasons other than Force Majeure and the cancellation is not caused by your fault or negligence, you will have the choice of accepting one of these options from AHI Travel: i) transfer to another date of the same tour, if available; ii) book another tour of equal or greater value, if available (you will be responsible for paying any difference in price); or iii) book another tour of lesser value, if available (with a refund payable to you for the difference in price); or iv) receive a full refund for the land-only portion of the applicable tour CANCELLATION GRACE PERIOD -Reservations made prior to 120 days before a tour´s scheduled departure date may be canceled within 7 days following the reservation date for a full refund. Reservations made within 120 days prior to a tour´s scheduled departure will not qualify for the grace period. CANCELLATION OF TRIP OPTIONS -Purchases of optional excursions, pre- and/or post-tour extensions, additional hotel nights, private transfers or other trip options become fully non-refundable 44 days prior to departure. Air transportation purchases are subject only to penalties assessed by the airlines. 

How to Get Around Switzerland: A Guide to Swiss Transportation

Wondering how to get around Switzerland? This guide will help you learn how to use the public transportation system and how to get around by car.

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Switzerland:

Wanderlust switzerland guide.

Need a quick day-by-day, open-and-go itinerary for Switzerland? Get my guide and let me do the work for you!

Our favorite Hotels in Switzerland

• Zurich : Baur Au Lac
• Lucerne : Burgenstock Alpine Hotel & Spa
• Zermatt: The Omnia
• Interlaken : Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel
• Bern : Hotel Schweiserhof
• Geneva : Swiss Luxury Apartments
• Montreaux : Eurotel Montreaux

Getting Around Switzerland

• Unlimited Train Rides : Swiss Pass
• Renting a Car : Cheap Rental Cars or Expedia Cars

Our favorite activities and tours in Switzerland

• Paragliding
• Lindt Chocolate Tour
• Lake Lucerne Cruise

How do I get around Switzerland?

There are many ways to get around Switzerland , the two main ways are using public transportation and renting a car. I’ll highlight the best way to get to each destination below. This Switzerland itinerary can easily be used with either a car or by train.

If you choose to get a rental car in Switzerland, I always recommend using this site to compare rates and cars.

If you choose to use public transportation in Switzerland, I recommend getting the Swiss Travel Pass to maximize your time and save you money. The Swiss Travel Pass offers unlimited train rides on most lines, free or discounted gondola rides, and discounts to many attractions though Switzerland.

I find that it’s especially worth buying the Swiss Travel Pass if you are planning to visit Zermatt because the expensive Gornergratt train is quite expensive, and it’s half off with the pass. If you’re comfortable riding trains and buses, I think it’s the best way to travel in Switzerland.

Where do I purchase my Swiss Travel Pass?

You can purchase your Swiss Travel Pass here . Just select the correct number of days for your Switzerland itinerary and check out. The pass begins on your selected date and runs continuously. The Swiss Travel Pass comes in. 3, 4, 6, 8, and 15 day increments.

Swiss Half Fare Card

If you’re unsure of your dates or the amount of time your Switzerland itinerary will be, it might be a good idea to purchase a Swiss Half Fare Card instead. This pass is good for one month and will offer 50% off most trains. There seems to be less of a discount on shorter journeys. I prefer to purchase the more expensive Swiss Travel Pass just for ease of use while I am in the country. But the Swiss Half Fare Card may be a better option if you are only planning on taking several long and expensive rail journeys. You can purchase the Swiss Half Fare Card here .

Renting a Car in Switzerland

If you want a little more freedom during your trip, you may want to consider renting a car in Switzerland . You’ll have the ability to reach some more off-the-beaten-path places that trains can’t reach. Driving in Switzerland is easy, especially if you’re from the US because they drive on the right side of the road. 

Download the SBB App for Switzerland Transportation

SBB App – Public transportation in Switzerland is shockingly punctual, clean, fast, and efficient. The SBB app will tell you when and where to get your trains and buses to take you where you want to go. This is the most important app you’ll need in Switzerland if you’re only traveling by public transportation.

I hope this guide to Switzerland transportation will help you get around the country with ease. Be sure to check out the most beautiful places in Switzerland and our Switzerland Itinerary.

There are lots of pros and cons to renting a car in Switzerland and using public transportation. Here’s a good list

Here is a list of pros and cons for traveling Switzerland by train vs. by rental car:

Traveling by Train in Switzerland

• More scenic views out the window
• Can relax and enjoy the ride
• No need to focus on driving/navigation
• Environmentally friendly
• Arrive directly in city centers
• Less flexibility with schedule/stops
• Can be more expensive
• Limited luggage space
• More flexibility with schedule and route
• Can stop wherever you want
• Usually cheaper than train
• More privacy
• Can carry more luggage
• Less scenic views
• Have to focus on driving
• More planning required for navigation
• Have to find and pay for parking
• More environmental impact

I hope this helps you plan your trip to Switzerland!

The post How to Get Around Switzerland: A Guide to Swiss Transportation appeared first on Wanderlust Crew .

More From Forbes

Swiss bliss: get high on summer tranquility and thrills in switzerland.

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Thinking about travel to Europe this summer? I’ll whisper this two-word, game-changing suggestion in your ear: Swiss Bliss . Switzerland is a spectacular vacation escape, promising plentiful pampering, playful diversions, culture (music festivals, art experiences, unique museums—from sports to science, film to food) and stellar gastronomy. Taste Chasselas wine; its white grapes are grown in the terraced Lavaux vineyards along the south-facing northern shores of Lake Geneva, where vintners produce artisanal batches that are rarely exported, so 98 percent of their singular sips can only be savored within the country. Discover abundant natural beauty and peaceful hideaways. Hike Alpine mountains. Swim in glistening lakes. Picnic amid wildflower meadows. For high-speed outings, ample opportunities abound: boating, road cycling, mountain biking, paragliding, skydiving and white-water rafting. Transportation within this tidy nation, especially via its SBB trains , is smooth and swift, accessing scores of destinations. (For itinerary details and surprising delights: My Switzerland Tourism .) Internationally renowned for training extraordinary hoteliers, hospitality is a revered profession, which adds smiles to your stay. Choose from a wide variety of accommodations—campgrounds to chalets to castles. If your vacay preference tends toward one-of-a-kind, five-star hotels, this article shines on three favorites, which are among French entrepreneur and winemaker Michel Reybier ’s impressive collection of wellness-promoting properties.

Interlaken: Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

Mountain sports, such as paragliding, are popular.

In the Bernese Oberland region, which encompasses magnificent pinnacles and turquoise lakes, legendary Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa , with 216 guest rooms and suites, sparkles brighter than ever. This Belle Époque resort, dating from the mid-1800s and distinguished for its who’s who history, faces the community green of Interlaken with the Harder Kulm mountain as backdrop. The hotel is at the base of famous Jungfraujoch, a mountain saddle between Jungfrau and Mönch peaks, called the Top of Europe. On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, a James Bond movie, was filmed at the nearby summit of Schilthorn. A new mountain trail that commences in the vicinity amplifies views of formidable Eiger’s North Face, located a funicular jaunt away. Or rise skyward riding a new Jungfrau Railway on a day trip to the heady altitude of 11,332 feet—a stunning uplift that is home to Europe’s highest train station.

Spacious grandeur.

Vibe: Palatial, glamorous, golden. Stroll crystal-chandelier salons with black-and-white checkered marble floors. Elaborate fountains, a roof cupola and expansive terraces dazzle. Eat & Treat Highlights: Executive chef Stefan Beer orchestrates imaginative, artistic fine-dining Radius, which uses the freshest ingredients garnered within approximately 30 miles. Relish, as well, La Terrasse Brasserie (for afternoon tea replete with finger sandwiches and pastries) and the Italian-spirited Ristorante e Pizzeria Sapori (for stone pizzas, seafood and some of Italy’s most flavorful wines). During evenings on Victoria Bar’s terrace, a pianist plays.

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Indoor pool at Victoria-Jungfrau's Nescens Spa.

Spa & Fitness: The year-round 59,200-square-foot spa wows with an indoor vaulted-ceiling swimming pool and fitness center. During summer, enjoy the hotel’s outdoor saltwater pool, as well as two adjacent glacier lakes, Brienz and Thunersee. There are tennis courts; lessons with a pro coach can be reserved. Pilates, bootcamp, step aerobics, yoga and other classes are offered; free daily group sessions vary. Kid Friendly: Bienehuus (Bee House), the hotel’s two-floor play facility showcases a library of children’s books, music room, creativity studio, relaxation area and multimedia lab.

Bienehuus children's center.

Geneva: La Réserve Geneva Hotel, Spa & Villa

Elegant ease.

At the southern end of Lake Geneva and a few miles from the city of Geneva—which itself is surrounded by the Alps and Jura mountains, with views of Mont Blanc— La Réserve Geneva Hotel, Spa and Villa , designed by Jacques Garcia, is ensconced within a landscaped 10-acre park in the suburb of Bellevue. Its 102 guest rooms and suites exude a quiet sophistication.

Gorgeous greens and blues of Swiss summer.

Vibe: Tranquil, modern, rejuvenating, verdant. The contemporary decor includes African art motifs and handcrafted woodwork. Eat & Treat Highlights: Executive chef Benjamin Brial is a master at bringing together innovative flavors and leading highly skilled kitchen teams. Le Loti Restaurant & Bar, with deliciously ambitious French and Mediterranean menus, is dressed with an eye-catching elephant wall sculpture and flourishing ferns. For evening entertainment: Live music and DJ spins. Also in the hotel, Le Tsé-Fung is Switzerland’s only Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant—outfitted with red velvet chairs, black lacquer screens, gold accents and silk drapery. It is reminiscent of 1930s Shanghai. Shenzhen-born Frank Xu, one of the world’s top chefs, stirs culinary enchantment in Geneva with the same applauded passion that he created years ago when, in Paris, he launched Shang Palace restaurant at the Shangri-La Hotel, earning it Michelin-star celebrity as well.

Indoor pool at La Réserve Geneva's Nescens Spa.

Spa & Fitness: The 20,000-square-foot Nescens Spa is Geneva’s largest wellness oasis and a significant draw for guests. Its indoor and outdoor pools are enticing. Summer activities headline tennis and wakeboarding lessons with a two-time World Wakesurf champion. Kid Friendly: La Petite Réserve, a children’s club, features an enormous playground—outdoor wood cabin on stilts and obstacle course with suspension bridge, climbable tree stumps, firefighter’s pole and slide. Fun, hands-on classes, such as pastry-making, engage. Instructors run swimming and diving lessons, as well as programs to overcome fear of water, in the outdoor pool.

Sweets for the sweet.

Zurich: La Réserve Eden au Lac

Ideally situated, Zurich's reborn gem.

La Réserve Eden au Lac —a fabled waterside French Empire-style landmark with heritage that spans more than 100 years—was radically re-designed by French industrial architect Philippe Starck, a perhaps surprisingly bold and edgy choice that turned out to be a brilliant one. Closed for a while to assess its much-needed renovations, the thoughtfully transformed hotel, which Starck envisioned as “an imaginary yacht club,” had a soft-opening during the COVID pandemic and wholly welcomed guests by 2022. He revamped it into the halcyon hot spot in cool Zurich, considered one of Europe’s most livable cites. This inviting, boutique-size retreat—with 40 guest rooms and suites—encourages 360-degree, panoramic gazes of Lake Zurich, a manicured park, forested hills and Zurich’s historical center. A leisurely walk takes you to Pavilion Le Corbusier, the Opera House, Kunsthaus Zurich museum (masterpieces by Van Gogh and Monet) and Bahnhofstrasse, the exclusive shopping street. More than 1,300 public art installations thread visual thrills throughout the city.

Let there be light: Comfy guest room.

Vibe: Restful, chic, intimate, flair-forward. Its pleasures are many, as regulars swoon over the hotel’s hushed in-the-know, seize-the-day appeal. Starck’s signature blend—of neutral earth tones, leathers, metals and mirrors—both energizes and comforts. Lovely are the marble and hardwood floors, wood marquetry, exposed brick walls, iconic blue-and-white-striped window awnings on the lake-facing facade and guest rooms’ private balconies and terraces. Graciousness prevails. People-watching—while indulging in Michel Reybier’s winning wines from his Château Cos d'Estournel estate in France—is a time-honored guest pursuit.

Street-level Eden Kitchen & Bar.

Eat & Treat Highlights: Executive chef Marco Ortolani, from Italy, deftly finesses restaurants at Le Réserve Eden au Lac. The green-tiled, bustling open-kitchen of Eden Kitchen & Bar, serves Italian and French dishes, as well as farther-afield global specialties. La Muña—with superb Peruvian-Japanese menus—tucked within the hotel’s domed roof, evokes the interior of a ship’s hull with nautical photographs and memorabilia on sloping walls. Linger outside, too, on La Muña’s tree-lined roof terrace.

La Muña restaurant.

Fitness: Personalized training with a coach or yoga teacher, at the hotel’s fitness hub, can be booked. New in-guest-room massage services use Nescens Spa products. Across the street is Art Nouveau-era Bad Utoquai bathing pavilion, for which the hotel provides its guests with a pass and towels. Stand-up paddle-boards are also available from the hotel, as well as E-bikes. Runners cheer the picturesque shoreline. Kid Friendly: Youths and adults alike are fascinated by Zurich’s charming Medieval neighborhood with its centuries-old houses, churches and fortifications. Join a guided walking tour—through narrow streets, hidden alleys, blooming gardens—to fully appreciate yesteryear’s secrets and lively stories.

A calming outlook.

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