The Ultimate Packing List
Planning a journey across Switzerland by train is the very definition of excitement. But before you step onboard the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, it’s completely normal to have a few practical questions that help you feel fully prepared and at ease.
That’s exactly why we’ve put this guide together.
Here you’ll find everything our travelers typically ask before experiencing one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world—collected, clarified, and answered in one place so you can plan with confidence and focus on the experience ahead.
Packing & Clothing
What temperatures should I expect, and how should I dress?
Switzerland is a land of contrasts. In a single day, you could enjoy warm sunshine in Zurich and then find yourself breathing crisp alpine air in the Engadin Valley.
That’s part of the magic—but it also means packing smart.
We recommend:
- Layered clothing (light base + warm mid-layer + waterproof outer layer)
- A compact jacket—even in summer
- Sunglasses and sun protection (the mountain sun is stronger than you think)
Don’t miss our full Grand Train Tour packing list; it’s designed so you don’t forget a single essential.
What should I wear to restaurants?
Dining in Switzerland strikes a perfect balance between relaxed and refined.
Think smart casual:
- Neat, comfortable outfits
- Closed shoes in most places
- A slightly dressier option for special evenings
- And most importantly, you’re on holiday. Feel free to express your personal style.
What kind of shoes should I bring?
If there’s one thing to prioritize, it’s comfort.
You’ll stroll through charming villages, scenic viewpoints, and train stations more than you might expect.
Bring:
- Comfortable walking or light hiking shoes
- A second pair for evenings or easy walks.
Your feet will thank you by day three.
Practical Essentials
What about electricity and adapters?
Switzerland uses Type J plugs (230V).
If you’re coming from the U.S., you’ll need:
- A plug adapter
- A voltage converter only if your devices are not dual voltage
We’ll provide an adapter during your tour briefing on the first day. That said, having one with you upon arrival is always a smart move, especially for your first night near the airport.
Is there Wi-Fi on the trains?
Most panoramic and regional trains offer Wi-Fi, though coverage may fade in remote alpine areas.
We recommend checking with your provider before departure to confirm whether your plan includes Switzerland (and at what cost). A quick check can save you from unexpected roaming charges.
If your plan doesn’t cover Switzerland, no problem, there are plenty of simple options:
- Purchase an eSIM online before your trip for instant activation
- Choose a short-term data plan tailored for Europe
- Or pick up a local SIM card upon arrival
Luggage & Logistics
Is luggage transported between hotels?
Yes—and it’s one of the most loved parts of the experience.
On the Guided Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, your luggage, which can consist of one suitcase plus whatever you bring on as carry-on on the plane, is seamlessly transferred from hotel to hotel, so you can travel light and focus entirely on the journey.
No dragging suitcases. No stress. Just effortless travel.
For the Self-Guided version, luggage transfer is not included by default. However, you can easily add it to your package for a seamless, stress-free travel experience. However, this service includes only one piece of luggage.
NB: for safety and operational reasons, each individual piece of luggage must not exceed a maximum weight of 23 kg (50 lbs).
How far is the hotel from the airport?
For the Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, your hotel will either be located at Zurich Airport or in the city center of Zurich.
Both options are carefully selected to keep things simple and comfortable.
Thanks to Switzerland’s incredibly efficient transport system, both choices ensure your arrival and departure days remain smooth, easy, and completely stress-free, exactly how travel should feel.
How far are the hotels from train stations?
We carefully select hotels as close as possible to train stations.
That means minimal walking after a long train ride to reach your hotel, easy departures, and yes… a little more sleep in the morning when needed.
Will I have time to buy souvenirs?
Our Grand Train Tour itineraries (16/13/9 days) are rich and immersive, but yes, there’s always time to explore on your own.
If you prefer a more relaxed pace, the Swiss Icon Collection offers even more free time.
Either way, every itinerary includes moments to browse local shops, pick up meaningful souvenirs, or simply enjoy a coffee with a spectacular view.
Food & Dining
Can dietary requirements (e.g., vegetarian) be accommodated?
Absolutely.
We coordinate with restaurants in advance, even when menus are fixed, so you’ll always have suitable options to choose from.
Whether vegetarian, gluten-free, or other dietary needs, Switzerland is very accommodating. Just let us know ahead of time, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Are tips expected in restaurants?
Service is already included in Switzerland.
That said, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5–10%) is a kind gesture for excellent service—but never required.
Should I tip the guide?
Entirely optional.
If your guide made your journey more meaningful, a tip is always appreciated, but it’s never expected.
The Experience On Tour
What is the average age of the group?
Our travelers are typically well-traveled adults between 50 and 70 years old.
What truly connects everyone isn’t age, it’s a shared love for scenic beauty, culture, meaningful, well-curated travel experiences!
How many guests are in a group?
We keep our groups intentionally small, maximum 16 guests.
This ensures:
- A more personal experience
- Better access to your guide
- A relaxed, unhurried atmosphere
On rare occasions, we may make exceptions if a guest is especially eager to join a specific departure.
What kind of train passes are included?
You’ll travel with the Swiss Travel Pass, your all-access key to Switzerland’s rail network.
This means:
- Seamless train travel
- Access to panoramic routes
- Worry-free connections
We also pre-book mountain trains, cogwheel railways, and gondolas—or your guide handles everything on the spot.
In short, you won’t have to think about tickets at all.
What type of beds can I expect in hotels?
Swiss hotels are a bit different from U.S. standards.
You’ll typically find:
- Double beds made of two mattresses
- Twin beds (very common)
- King beds are less frequent
We always do our best to match your preferences whenever possible.
Daily Rhythm
What time do we start in the morning?
Most days begin between 8:00 and 9:00 AM.
Occasionally, we start earlier, around 7:00 AM, and for a good reason:
the most breathtaking viewpoints are best enjoyed before the crowds arrive.
Don’t worry, you’ll always be informed in advance, and participation is flexible.
If you prefer a slower morning, you’re free to skip early activities and recharge.
What if I feel tired—can I skip part of the program?
Absolutely.
This is your journey, not a rigid schedule.
You can always coordinate with your guide to take a break, skip a stop, or simply relax at a café instead.
Flexibility is built into the experience.
Payments & Travel Planning
Do I need to pay the full trip upfront?
We typically work with a 10% deposit followed by scheduled payments.
Details vary depending on the itinerary and booking timeline, and we’ll guide you through everything clearly.
Can I split the payment across multiple credit cards?
To confirm your booking, a 10% deposit is required and must be paid as a single transaction.
For the remaining balance, flexible installment options are available to make the payment process easier and more manageable.
Please note that splitting a single payment across multiple credit cards is generally not possible. However, we’re always here to help you structure the payment schedule in the most convenient way for you, so everything feels simple, clear, and stress-free from the start.
Is travel insurance recommended?
Yes, strongly recommended.
Travel insurance protects you from unexpected changes, giving you peace of mind before and during your trip.
We partner with a trusted provider to ensure you’re covered every step of the way, feel free to reach out for a personalized quote.
The Grand Train Tour of Switzerland isn’t just a trip. It’s a carefully orchestrated journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, designed to feel effortless from start to finish.
At ECHO Rails, we take care of every detail so you can focus on what truly matters:
watching Switzerland unfold outside your window… and simply enjoying the ride.
